STRATOSPHERE

[noun] [U] - the stratosphere the layer of gases surrounding the Earth at a height of between 15 and 50 kilometres. The weather has no effect on it and its temperature increases with greater height.The stratosphere is part of the Earth's atmosphere and its temperature ranges from -50°C to zero.During the 1980s, the amount of ozone in the stratosphere above Europe decreased by about 8%.(figurative) She made her fortune when property prices went into the stratosphere (= increased a lot).Compare ionosphere.