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surface 1 of 3

Definition of surfacenext
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
The result is far more complex than the drawings of volcanoes most saw in school, with a main vent connecting a chamber of magma with the surface. Arkansas Online, 11 Jan. 2026 Waxing refers to applying a thin coating of furniture paste wax to the wood surface. Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 11 Jan. 2026
Verb
The consequences might not be immediately visible and could take years to surface fully — but there’s no doubt that this latest move has broken something monumental, and its effects will eventually reach us all. Lisa Jarvis, Mercury News, 9 Jan. 2026 The hue has surfaced across other recent celebrity wardrobes as well. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
Note that the multi-surface file, scissors and saw join the blade on the outside of the closed Alpha body, accessible without opening the plier handles. New Atlas, 25 Oct. 2025 That, though, would be a gross misestimation of a car that is a complete sub-surface reinvention in the Blue Oval’s pursuit of the ultimate track horse. Tim Stevens, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for surface
Recent Examples of Synonyms for surface
Noun
  • This chic travel bag has a waterproof faux leather exterior, plus a durable polyester lining that’s easy to clean.
    Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 9 Jan. 2026
  • The unlawful taking of any part or accessory affixed to the interior or exterior of a motor vehicle in a manner which would make the item an attachment of the vehicle or necessary for its operation.
    Baltimore Sun staff, Baltimore Sun, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Hyundai Motor Group’s Atlas humanoid robot emerged as a standout winner at CES 2026 in Las Vegas this week, earning the Best Robot award as chosen by global media covering the show.
    Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Apart from his on-field performance, Carson has emerged as one of college football’s top earners in the new NIL era, securing lucrative partnerships with brands such as Beats by Dre and Chipotle, according to Front Office Sports.
    Nasha Smith, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • There were 107 homicides in Kansas City in 2012, and while that number dipped to as low as 82 homicides in 2014, the number of homicides continued to rise until a peak in 2023 at 182 homicides.
    Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Tensions rise when Nora, a stage actress, rejects Gustav's offer to star in his comeback film and is forced to confront her feelings toward her estranged father.
    Yamillah Hurtado, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • And to folks unfamiliar with the IP system, that makes some superficial sense.
    David J. Kappos, Fortune, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Whether opting for a superficial peel like a lactic or glycolic acid, a medium-depth peel such as Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), or deep treatment such as phenol, a chemical peel can address many skin concerns.
    Essence, Essence, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • This incredibly lightweight, breathable windbreaker jacket has an adjustable bungee cord collar and waist for a custom fit, as well as two large pockets at the front.
    Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Winds turn gusty behind the front, with northwest gusts up to 25 to 35 mph Sunday evening and overnight.
    Andrew Kozak, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Cultural, linguistic, and value-based assimilation challenges arise, potentially altering national identities and eroding civilizational confidence.
    Daniel Ross Goodman, The Washington Examiner, 9 Jan. 2026
  • The original postponement announcement stated NASA was monitoring a medical concern that arose Wednesday afternoon.
    Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The iceberg sat in the shallow water of the Weddell Sea in the Southern Ocean for more than 30 years before breaking free in 2020 and into an ocean whirlpool for several months.
    Brie Stimson, FOXNews.com, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Back in the resort, families naturally gravitated toward its main, multi-level pool, which features ample shallow areas for tiny swimmers and rentable cabanas that serve as the perfect respite from the sun.
    Amber Kallor, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • These encounters appear to act like a refueling system, delivering fresh gas that can keep the black hole quietly active for long periods.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 10 Jan. 2026
  • The video also appeared to depict the officers did not take immediate steps to ensure that Good received emergency medical care after the shooting took place.
    Sarah N. Lynch, CBS News, 10 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Surface.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/surface. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

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