Here's why:

* Stratified means the epithelium has multiple layers of cells.

* Squamous means the cells are flat and scale-like.

* Elongated cells are characteristic of the basal layer of stratified squamous epithelium. These cells are responsible for dividing and producing new cells to replace those lost at the surface.

Important Note: While elongated cells are present in the basal layer of stratified squamous epithelium, the superficial layers of this epithelium are composed of flattened squamous cells with their nuclei often appearing small and flattened.