Resurface Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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resurface

[riหหˆsษœห.r.fษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

road construction

To resurface means to repair or renew the surface of a road, pavement, or other area. This process involves laying a new layer of material over the existing surface to improve its condition and extend its lifespan.

Synonyms

refurbish, renew, repair.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
resurface

Use 'resurface' when talking about applying a new surface layer to an object, often used with roads, floors, or other large surfaces.

  • The city decided to resurface the main street to improve driving conditions.
  • After several years, the gym decided to resurface the wooden basketball court.
repair

Use 'repair' when talking about fixing something that is broken or damaged.

  • The technician came to repair the heating system.
  • She had to repair her broken phone screen.
renew

Use 'renew' when talking about starting something again, extending the period of validity, or making something fresh and new again in a more abstract sense.

  • We need to renew our subscription to the magazine.
  • The park has been renewed with new plants and fresh landscaping.
refurbish

Use 'refurbish' when talking about renovating, redecorating, or making an old item or space look new and updated again, typically involves more extensive work than just repairs.

  • The company is planning to refurbish its old headquarters to attract new clients.
  • They bought an old house and spent a lot of time and money to refurbish it.

Examples of usage

  • The city plans to resurface several major roads next month.
  • The highway will be closed for a week while crews resurface the asphalt.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In geology, resurfacing can refer to the process where new material, often from volcanic eruptions, replaces older surfaces.
  • Marine biology studies how certain species can resurface after being dormant in deep environments, showcasing adaptability.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often 'resurface' in the final act, bringing back past experiences or hidden traits.
  • The term is frequently used in discussions about celebrities making comebacks or reappearing in the public eye after time away.

Psychology

  • In therapeutic contexts, resurfacing can describe when repressed memories return during treatment, often helping individuals process past experiences.
  • The idea of resurfacing emotions is crucial in understanding attachment styles and coping mechanisms.

Technology

  • In software updates, 'resurfacing' features means making hidden tools visible again to improve user experience.
  • Augmented reality technologies utilize concepts of resurfacing by projecting digital objects over physical ones.

Origin of 'resurface'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and 'surface', which refers to the outer layer of something.
  • First recorded usage dates back to the early 20th century, commonly in contexts like roads being repaired or materials being brought to visibility.

The word 'resurface' originates from the combination of 're-' meaning again, and 'surface' referring to the outermost layer of something. The concept of resurfacing has been crucial for maintaining infrastructure and ensuring safe transportation routes throughout history.


See also: subsurface, surface, surfaces, undersurface.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,953 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.