sur·face
(sûŕfəs)
[French, sur-, above (from Old French; see sur–), + face, face (from Old French; see face).]
noun
- The outer or the topmost boundary of an object.
- A material layer constituting such a boundary.
- Mathematics
- The boundary of a three-dimensional figure.
- The two-dimensional locus of points located in three-dimensional space.
- A portion of space having length and breadth but no thickness.
- The superficial or external aspect: “a flamboyant, powerful confidence man who lives entirely on the surface of experience” (Frank Conroy)
- An airfoil.
adjective
- Relating to, on, or at a surface: surface algae in the water.
- Relating to or occurring on or near the surface of the earth.
- Superficial.
- Apparent as opposed to real.
verb: -faced, -fac·ing, -fac·es.
transitive verb
- To provide with a surface or apply a surface to: surface a table with walnut; surface a road with asphalt.
intransitive verb
- To rise to the surface.
- To emerge after concealment.
- To work or dig a mine at or near the surface of the ground.
idioms
- on the surface
- To all intents and purposes; to all outward appearances: a soldier who, on the surface, appeared brave and patriotic.
