Surfacing: meaning, definitions and examples

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surfacing

 

[ˈsɜːrfəsɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

coming to surface

Surfacing refers to the act of emerging or coming to the surface of something, particularly in relation to water or a substance. It can also imply becoming visible or noticeable after being hidden or submerged.

Synonyms

appearing, emerging, rising.

Examples of usage

  • The submarine is surfacing after a long mission.
  • The fish started surfacing to catch insects.
  • The diver is surfacing slowly to avoid decompression sickness.
Context #2 | Noun

layer or interface

In a more specific context, surfacing refers to a layer or surface that covers or presents itself. This can apply to materials, environments, or other contexts where a top layer is significant.

Synonyms

coating, covering, layer.

Examples of usage

  • The surfacing of the road needs repairs.
  • The project includes the surfacing of the playground.
  • She worked on the surfacing of the table to make it smooth.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'surfacing' comes from the root word 'surface,' which means the outer layer or top part of something.
  • The prefix 'sur-' is from Latin, meaning 'over' or 'above,' indicating movement towards the top.

Science

  • In geology, surfacing can refer to rocks or minerals appearing on the earth's surface due to erosion.
  • Marine biologists use the term to describe how whales and other deep-sea creatures come up for air after diving.

Psychology

  • In therapeutic contexts, 'surfacing' refers to bringing subconscious thoughts and feelings to awareness.
  • The process of surfacing emotions can help individuals understand and address their mental health challenges.

Literature

  • In storytelling, characters often experience 'surfacing' as a metaphor for personal growth or revealing hidden truths.
  • Poets sometimes use the imagery of surfacing to describe moments of clarity or moments when hidden emotions are exposed.

Pop Culture

  • The term is popular in the context of surfing as a sport, where surfers literally and figuratively surface from the waves.
  • In movies, scenes of characters surfacing from water often symbolize rebirth or escape.

Translations

Translations of the word "surfacing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superfície

🇮🇳 सतह पर आना

🇩🇪 Oberfläche

🇮🇩 permukaan

🇺🇦 поверхня

🇵🇱 powierzchnia

🇯🇵 表面

🇫🇷 surface

🇪🇸 superficie

🇹🇷 yüzey

🇰🇷 표면

🇸🇦 سطح

🇨🇿 povrch

🇸🇰 povrch

🇨🇳 表面

🇸🇮 površina

🇮🇸 yfirborð

🇰🇿 беткей

🇬🇪 პოვერფეისი

🇦🇿 səth

🇲🇽 superficie

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,639, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.