surfacing

sur·face  (sûrfs)

n.

1.

a. The outer or the topmost boundary of an object.

b. A material layer constituting such a boundary.

2. Mathematics

a. The boundary of a three-dimensional figure.

b. The two-dimensional locus of points located in three-dimensional space.

c. A portion of space having length and breadth but no thickness.

3. The superficial or external aspect: "a flamboyant, powerful confidence man who lives entirely on the surface of experience" (Frank Conroy).

4. An airfoil.

adj.

1. Relating to, on, or at a surface: surface algae in the water.

2. Relating to or occurring on or near the surface of the earth.

3.

a. Superficial.

b. Apparent as opposed to real.

v. sur·faced, sur·fac·ing, sur·fac·es

v.tr.

To provide with a surface or apply a surface to: surface a table with walnut; surface a road with asphalt.

v.intr.

1. To rise to the surface.

2. To emerge after concealment.

3. To work or dig a mine at or near the surface of the ground.

Idiom:

on the surface

To all intents and purposes; to all outward appearances: a soldier who, on the surface, appeared brave and patriotic.

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[French : sur-, above (from Old French; see sur-) + face, face (from Old French; see face).]

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

surfacing - emerging to the surface and becoming apparent egression, egress, emergence - the act of coming (or going) out; becoming apparent