the outside or top layer of something
The cat stretched out on the cool surface of the kitchen floor.
Raindrops splashed as they hit the surface of the pond.
to rise or come up to the top of water or another liquid
Dolphins surface to breathe every few minutes.
The diver surfaced slowly, watching his depth gauge.
to become known or visible after being hidden
New evidence has surfaced in the investigation.
Old rumors about the singer suddenly surfaced online.
to cover a road or other area with a smooth layer of material
Workers will surface the road with fresh asphalt tonight.
They surfaced the patio using smooth stone tiles.
existing on or relating only to the outside part or appearance, not deep or thorough
He had only a surface understanding of chemistry.
The scratch is surface damage and won’t affect the phone’s performance.