阶层
jiēcéng · HSK 7
social stratum
🪜 阶 steps/rank + 层 layer/floor = a social stratum, a layer in the staircase of society
层 — corpse 尸 + cloud 云 (simplified from 曾)
层 is the simplified form of 層. The original character combines 尸 (a roof/dwelling) with 曾 (céng), which provides the sound and originally depicted stacked layers of a steamer. Together they suggested a multi-storied building, extending to mean 'layer,' 'tier,' or 'story.'