Definitions

1. adjective

relating to or affecting the surface of the Earth or another celestial body, especially as opposed to the interior or the deep structure.

“The geologists studied the surficial features of the newly discovered planet.”

2. noun

the surface of the Earth or another celestial body, especially as opposed to the interior or the deep structure.

“The surficial deposits in this region are rich in minerals.”

3. adverb

in a superficial or surface-level manner.

“The new policy will be implemented surficially at first, but changes may occur later.”