Step 1: Meaning.
Social stratification refers to structured inequality in society where people are ranked in a hierarchy.
Step 2: Examples.
\begin{itemize}
\item In India, caste system is a form of stratification.
\item In modern societies, class (wealth, income, education) determines stratification.
\end{itemize}
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, stratification is a system of ranking people into layers with unequal access to resources and power.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Stratification = structured social hierarchy}} \]