surface 1 of 3

as in exterior
an outer part or layer the surface of just about everything in the kitchen was covered with soot after we put the grease fire out

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surface

2 of 3

verb

1
as in to emerge
to come to one's attention especially gradually or unexpectedly no information regarding the stolen car has surfaced since the police found it abandoned on a country road

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2
as in to rise
to penetrate the surface (as of water) from below a submarine surfaced on the starboard side of the aircraft carrier

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surface

3 of 3

adjective

as in superficial
lying on or affecting only the outer layer of something a surface stain on the wood that can easily be removed with a mild detergent

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of surface
Noun
On its surface, the examination at the Leslie County Jail – where Stines was taken after the arrest because of his close connection to Letcher County jail staffers – paints a picture of him as being in a fog of confusion, unresponsiveness and paranoia. Andy Rose, CNN Money, 6 Sep. 2025 According to the spokesperson, the inspector found an accumulation of food and grease on equipment and food contact surfaces. Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
News of the tour first surfaced on Reddit, after fans spotted flyers around several of the cities where the band will play. Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 3 Sep. 2025 Reports surfaced this week suggesting that Chelsea Clinton may be considering a run for Congress in New York's 12th District, where longtime Democratic Representative Jerry Nadler has announced his retirement. Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025
Adjective
This wet-dry vacuum can tackle literally any mess with a multi-surface wet roller head, a hair de-tangler, and a dust detect sensor. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 8 Aug. 2025 With modern farming, and its use of pesticides and herbicides, surface microbial communities often suffer. New Atlas, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for surface
Recent Examples of Synonyms for surface
Noun
  • The latest version of the two-door, which is available as a coupe and convertible, weighs less and features a more sculpted exterior that produces 20 percent more downforce.
    Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Small, intentional touches can instantly brighten your home’s exterior.
    Lauren Jones, Southern Living, 4 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Many of the aforementioned executives have sought friendlier ties with Trump, often appearing at events alongside the president to announce moves that align with the administration’s goals on emerging technologies and American reshoring.
    Dylan Butts, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Leading up to their season opener against the Washington Commanders, developments emerged that multiple players could get snaps under center.
    Kevin McCormick, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Set in early-1960s New York City, the film follows a folk song singing Minnesotan with a guitar and a dream, rising from a coffeehouse performer to a counterculture legend.
    Hannah Kerns, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Gabby Provenzano rose at the near post and powered home a header from point-blank range in the 81st minute, assisted by Sabrina McNeill’s cross off a corner.
    Shane Connuck, Charlotte Observer, 7 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • But a focus on just its components is too superficial and narrow a perspective.
    GARY ROUGHEAD, Foreign Affairs, 2 Sep. 2025
  • Right from the beginning, through these influencer events alone, Cécred established itself as credible and personal, whereas other brands might have kept their influencer relationships at a superficial level.
    Braedon Montgomery, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • For the most part, the Chiefs’ defensive front could not penetrate the Chargers’ offensive line, providing Herbert the necessary time to hit receivers consistently open by several steps.
    Pete Sweeney, Kansas City Star, 6 Sep. 2025
  • It’s made with a soft cotton-blend material, sporting a classic gingham pattern, four buttons down the front, and a slim fit that cinches in your waist for a flattering silhouette.
    Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 5 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Confusion arose, however, after Domingo suggested she and her brother, Prince, were directly involved in the project.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 3 Sep. 2025
  • There isn’t an active market, like there is for shares in public companies, and issues have arisen in other sports.
    Jesse Silvertown, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Sitz Baths Soak your anal area by sitting in a shallow bath of plain warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, two or three times a day.
    Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Place the flour in a shallow dish, add the chicken and turn to coat both sides.
    Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 5 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Diets rich in vitamin D and iron appeared to help combat alopecia and hair loss.
    Brian Mastroianni, Health, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Jalen Carter was ejected from the Eagles’ season opener after appearing to spit at Dak Prescott.
    Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Surface.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/surface. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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