superficies
The English word "surface" is translated into Latin as superficies.
superficies refers to the outside hull of a tangible object. When discussing the action of something rising or coming to the surface, you can use related verbs such as emergere (to emerge) or exoriri (to arise).
Meaning: outside hull of a tangible object (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of super (above/over) and facies (face/appearance).
How does it change in a sentence?
superficies is a fifth-declension feminine noun, like faciēs. The accusative singular form is superficiem.
Did you know?
- In Roman law, the term superficies was used to describe the legal right to own buildings or plants on land owned by someone else. This shifted the word from a physical 'surface' to a specific legal category of property.
- The root facies in superficies is also the ancestor of the English word 'face'. While 'surface' refers to a physical exterior, 'face' originally referred to the general shape or appearance of a person.
Examples in context
- Superficies navis est valde dura.The surface of the ship is very hard.
- Superficies capsae est levis.The surface of the box is smooth.
Example conversation
Claudia and Gaius are examining a piece of marble.
- ClaudiaGai, videsne superficiem huius marmoris?Gaius, do you see the surface of this marble?
- GaiusIta, Claudia, superficies pulcherrima est.Yes, Claudia, the surface is very beautiful.
- ClaudiaEstne superficies dura?Is the surface hard?
- GaiusIta, et valde nitida est.Yes, and it is very shiny.
