sur·face / ˈsərfis/ • n. 1. the outside part or uppermost layer of something (often used when describing its texture, form, or extent): the earth's surface poor road surfaces. ∎  the level top of something: roll out the dough on a floured surface. ∎  (also surface area) the area of such an outer part or uppermost layer: the surface area of a cube. ∎  [in sing.] the upper limit of a body of liquid: fish floating on the surface of the water. ∎  [in sing.] what is apparent on a casual view or consideration of someone or something, esp. as distinct from feelings or qualities that are not immediately obvious: Tom was a womanizer, but on the surface he remained respectable| [as adj.] we need to go beyond surface appearances. 2. Geom. a set of points that has length and breadth but no thickness.• adj. of, relating to, or occurring on the upper or outer part of something: surface workers at the copper mines. ∎  denoting ships that travel on the surface of the water as distinct from submarines: the surface fleet. ∎  carried by or denoting transportation by sea or overland as contrasted with by air: surface mail.• v. 1. [intr.] rise or come up to the surface of the water or the ground: he surfaced from his dive. ∎  come to people's attention; become apparent: the quarrel first surfaced two years ago. ∎ inf. (of a person) appear after having been asleep: it was almost noon before Anthony surfaced.2. [tr.] (usu. be surfaced) provide (something, esp. a road) with a particular upper or outer layer: a small path surfaced with terra-cotta tiles.DERIVATIVES: sur·faced adj. [often in comb.] a smooth-surfaced cylinder. sur·fac·er n.

surface XVII. — F., f. SUR-2 + face FACE.