Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.

   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.

            This superficial tale Is but a preface of her worthy
            praise.                               --Shak.

            He is a presumptuous and superficial writer.
                                                  --Burke.

            That superficial judgment, which happens to be right
            without deserving to be so.           --J. H.
                                                  Newman.
      -- {Su`per*fi"cial*ly}, adv. -- {Su`per*fi"cial*ness}, n.