1
: as deep as the skin
2
: not thorough or lasting in impression : superficial

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The 2024 Hyundai Elantra's changes are mostly skin-deep. Car and Driver, 19 Apr. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'skin-deep.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of skin-deep was circa 1613

Dictionary Entries Near skin-deep

Cite this Entry

“Skin-deep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skin-deep. Accessed 3 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

skin-deep

adjective
ˈskin-ˈdēp
1
: as deep as the skin
2
: not thorough or lasting in impression : superficial

More from Merriam-Webster on skin-deep

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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