Surface: meaning, definitions and examples

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surface

 

[ ˈsɜː.fɪs ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

computer technology

The surface is the outermost layer or boundary of an object or material. In computer technology, it refers to the user interface of a software or device.

Synonyms

exterior, outer layer, top layer

Examples of usage

  • Please wipe the surface of the table clean.
  • The Microsoft Surface Pro is a popular device for professionals.
Context #2 | Verb

geology

To surface means to appear or become evident after being hidden or submerged. In geology, it refers to the emergence of rocks or land to the visible surface of the Earth.

Synonyms

appear, come to the surface, emerge

Examples of usage

  • The submarine surfaced after a long dive.
  • New evidence has surfaced in the investigation.

Translations

Translations of the word "surface" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superfície

🇮🇳 सतह

🇩🇪 Oberfläche

🇮🇩 permukaan

🇺🇦 поверхня

🇵🇱 powierzchnia

🇯🇵 表面 (ひょうめん)

🇫🇷 surface

🇪🇸 superficie

🇹🇷 yüzey

🇰🇷 표면 (pyomyeon)

🇸🇦 سطح

🇨🇿 povrch

🇸🇰 povrch

🇨🇳 表面 (biǎomiàn)

🇸🇮 površina

🇮🇸 yfirborð

🇰🇿 бет

🇬🇪 ზედაპირი (zedap'iri)

🇦🇿 səth

🇲🇽 superficie

Word origin

The word 'surface' originated from the Latin word 'superficies', which means 'the uppermost surface'. It has been used in English since the 17th century. The concept of surface is fundamental in various fields such as physics, chemistry, and technology, representing the boundary or interface of an object.

See also: resurface, subsurface, surfaces, undersurface.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #346, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.