Origin: Latin suffix -al
Superficial has 7 different meanings across 1 category:
A surface detail.
"The critic noted that while the painting had a beautiful superficial layer of gold leaf, it lacked any depth in its underlying composition."
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"
of, affecting, or being on or near the surface
"superficial measurements"
"the superficial area of the wall"
"a superficial wound"
of little substance or significance
"a few superficial editorial changes"
"only trivial objections"
occurring on or near the surface of the skin
"superficial burns"
"superficial facial injuries"
hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough
"a casual (or cursory) inspection failed to reveal the house's structural flaws"
"a passing glance"
"perfunctory courtesy"
"In his paper, he showed a very superficial understanding of psychoanalytic theory"
Existing, occurring, or located on the surface.
"The doctor noticed a superficial scratch on my arm that wouldn't need stitches."