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Definition of superficial

superficial

/ˌsuːpɚˈfɪʃəl/
su · per · fi · cial
Adverb:superficially
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superficial Lexical Profile

superficial Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Lacking depth of character, serious thought, or thorough understanding; concerned only with what is obvious or apparent.

Example

"The article provided only a superficial analysis of the complex economic crisis."

2

Existing, occurring, or situated on or near the surface or exterior of something, such as the skin or a physical structure.

Example

"Fortunately, the cyclist suffered only superficial scrapes and bruises from the fall."

3

Apparent rather than actual or substantial; true only at first glance.

Example

"Despite some superficial similarities, the two languages belong to completely different families."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for superficial

• Rhymes for superficial

• Nearby Words

superexpensive
superfan
superfast
superficial
superficiality
superficially
superficialness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Late Latin superficialis, meaning "of or relating to the surface," from Latin superficies ("surface"), a compound of super- ("above, over") and facies ("form, figure, face").

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Superficial. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/superficial
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