from
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.
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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.
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This superficial tale
Is but a preface of her worthy praise. --Shak.
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He is a presumptuous and superficial writer.
--Burke.
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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.
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