Words used by archaeologists to describe whether an object was found within the layers or features it was originally laid down in, (or has been disturbed and moved around). Where objects that change decoration or form over time, such as coins or pottery are stratified they can help to tell archaeologists the date or function of the layers and features being excavated. Where disturbance, such as ploughing, has taken place an object will be unstratified and whilst interesting for its own sake it contributes little to the dating, or understanding, of an archaeological site.