combining form of STRATUS, used to form names for mixed types of cloud-structure in which the ‘stratus’ form is present as an element modifying one of the other forms. Strato-cirrus, a cloud resembling cirro-stratus, but more compact in structure; hence Strato-cirrous a. Strato-cumulus = cumulo-stratus; hence Strato-cumulous a.
1816. W. Taylor, in Monthly Mag., XLII. 35. Such clouds should be called strato-cirrous.
1898. Jrnl. Sch. Geog. (U.S.), Oct., 310. The sky … was overcast with strato-cumulus and cumulus clouds.
