superficial Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective concerned with or comprehending only what is apparent or obvious; not deep or penetrating emotionally or intellectually
    • superficial similarities
    • a superficial mind
    • his thinking was superficial and fuzzy
    • superficial knowledge
    • the superficial report didn't give the true picture
    • only superficial differences
  2. adjective of, affecting, or being on or near the surface
    • superficial measurements
    • the superficial area of the wall
    • a superficial wound
  3. adjective satellite of little substance or significance
    trivial.
    • a few superficial editorial changes
    • only trivial objections

WordNet

Su`per*fi"cial adjective
Etymology
L. superficialis: cf. F. superficiel. See Superficies.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to the superficies, or surface; lying on the surface; shallow; not deep; as, a superficial color; a superficial covering; superficial measure or contents; superficial tillage.
  2. Reaching or comprehending only what is obvious or apparent; not deep or profound; shallow; -- said especially in respect to study, learning, and the like; as, a superficial scholar; superficial knowledge.
    This superficial tale Is but a preface of her worthy praise. Shak.
    He is a presumptuous and superficial writer. Burke.
    That superficial judgment, which happens to be right without deserving to be so. J. H. Newman.
    -- Su`per*fi"cial*ly, adv. -- Su`per*fi"cial*ness, n.

Webster 1913