1.
2.
3.
[syn: superficial, trivial]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Superficial \Su`per*fi"cial\, a. [L. superficialis: cf. F.
superficiel. See Superficies.]
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.
[1913 Webster]
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.
[1913 Webster]
This superficial tale
Is but a preface of her worthy praise. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
He is a presumptuous and superficial writer.
--Burke.
[1913 Webster]
That superficial judgment, which happens to be right
without deserving to be so. --J. H.
Newman.
[1913 Webster] -- Su`per*fi"cial*ly, adv. --
Su`per*fi"cial*ness, n.
[1913 Webster]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
superficial
adj 1: 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" [ant: profound]
2: of, affecting, or being on or near the surface; "superficial
measurements"; "the superficial area of the wall"; "a
superficial wound"
3: of little substance or significance; "a few superficial
editorial changes"; "only trivial objections" [syn:
superficial, trivial]