Pronunciation: [sˈuːpəfˈɪʃə͡lnəs] (IPA) 
The word "superficialness" is spelled with three syllables: /ˌsuː.pəˈfɪʃ.əl.nəs/. The first syllable begins with the "s" sound, followed by the long "u" sound and the "p" sound. The second syllable has the "f" sound, the short "i" sound, the "sh" sound, and the "əl" sound. The final syllable has the "n" sound, the "əs" sound, and the unstressed "ə" sound. This word refers to the quality of being shallow or lacking depth.
Superficialness refers to the quality or characteristic of being superficial. When describing a person, it pertains to a lack of depth or substance in their thoughts, actions, or behavior, typically emphasizing appearance or surface-level observations rather than delving into deeper understanding or analysis. It is the tendency to focus on external or trivial aspects without considering the underlying complexities or significance of a subject matter.
Superficialness can also describe an attribute of an object, concept, or situation, indicating that it lacks depth, meaning, or importance. It suggests a lack of thoroughness, thorough investigation, or comprehensive understanding of a particular subject, issue, or topic. Superficialness often implies a lack of critical thinking or intellectual rigor.
In social interactions, superficialness may manifest as engaging in small talk or discussing only superficial matters, forgoing meaningful or profound conversations. This often results in the formation of shallow relationships that revolve around appearances, status, or superficial interests, while lacking true emotional or intellectual connection.
Moreover, superficialness can extend to the realm of aesthetics, referring to the external appearance of an object or individual without considering its intrinsic qualities or deeper meanings. It suggests an emphasis on the surface-level, physical attributes rather than recognizing the underlying essence or substance.
Overall, superficialness denotes a shallowness, limited understanding, or lack of depth in thoughts, actions, relationships, or overall comprehension of a subject matter or situation.
Position on the surface; shallow, slight knowledge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "superficialness" is derived from the adjective "superficial".
The adjective "superficial" originated in the late 14th century in Middle English. It is derived from the Latin word "superficialis", which means "of or relating to the surface" or "shallow". The Latin term is a combination of the prefix "super" meaning "above" or "over", and "facies" meaning "face" or "surface".
By adding the suffix "-ness" to the adjective "superficial", we form the noun "superficialness". This suffix is commonly used to convert adjectives into nouns, indicating a state or quality of being. Therefore, "superficialness" represents the state or quality of being superficial, referring to a lack of depth or thoroughness in understanding, feeling, or appearance.
