Surface: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the outermost layer or the topmost area of something.

• She cleaned the surface of the table.
• The lake's surface was calm.

Refers to the outside of something, often a building or structure.

• The exterior of the house needs painting.
• He admired the car's exterior design.

Used when talking about the layer that is on the outside, typically in scientific or technical contexts.

• The outer layer of the Earth's atmosphere is called the exosphere.
• The outer layer of the onion was peeled away.

Indicates the uppermost layer, usually in contexts involving multiple layers.

• The cake was frosted on the top layer.
• The top layer of the soil is fertile.

Repeat of the first entry; commonly used to describe something becoming visible or evident, typically after being concealed.

• The divers waited for the submarine to surface.
• The truth will eventually surface.

Used when something comes out from a hidden place or becomes known after being obscured or under development. Often used for ideas, trends, feelings, or physical appearances.

• A new leader emerged from the election.
• As the fog cleared, the mountains emerged in the distance.

Used when something comes into view or becomes noticeable, either physically or figuratively. It can apply to physical objects, people, or situations.

• A strange light appeared in the sky.
• She suddenly appeared at the party.

Typically used in a more figurative sense to describe when emotions, issues, or hidden things become apparent or noticeable. It often implies a revelation or exposure of something previously hidden.

• Old feelings of resentment came to the surface during the argument.
• As the investigation continued, more details started to come to the surface.