1
as in superficial
lying on or affecting only the outer layer of something
fortunately, the cut was only skin-deep
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in shallow
having or showing a lack of depth of understanding or character
the book provides some interesting anecdotes but only offers a skin-deep analysis of the events it chronicles
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of skin-deep
But for those seeking therapies that are more than skin-deep, the nation has also become a destination for patients from India, Pakistan, neighboring Gulf countries, and beyond who are looking to live longer, better lives.
—
Lara Setrakian, semafor.com, 10 Oct. 2025
Consumers are realizing that beauty isn’t skin-deep.
—Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 19 Sep. 2025
The comparisons were more than skin-deep: the researchers used gravity data to take a peek underground.
—Elise Cutts, Scientific American, 13 May 2025
However, despite some fancy camera work and close-ups, this production only goes skin-deep.
—Christian Lewis, Variety, 28 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for skin-deep
Lara Setrakian, semafor.com, 10 Oct. 2025
Consumers are realizing that beauty isn’t skin-deep.
—Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 19 Sep. 2025
The comparisons were more than skin-deep: the researchers used gravity data to take a peek underground.
—Elise Cutts, Scientific American, 13 May 2025
However, despite some fancy camera work and close-ups, this production only goes skin-deep.
—Christian Lewis, Variety, 28 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for skin-deep
Recent Examples of Synonyms for skin-deep
Adjective
-
For now, at least, that defense is mostly superficial.—
Gaby Del Valle,
Harpers Magazine,
24 Mar. 2026
-
These smaller, superficial doses can help minimize the appearance of pores, reduce oiliness, soften fine lines, and create a smoother overall finish without freezing your facial movements.—
Jenny Jin,
Allure,
21 Mar. 2026
Adjective
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If the topsoil isn't very deep on part of the lawn due to shallow tree roots popping up there, add 1/4 inch of topsoil.—
David Beaulieu,
The Spruce,
2 Apr. 2026
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Arrange ribs in shallow bowls, over mashed potatoes if desired, and spoon sauce over.—
Jenny Rosenstrach,
Bon Appetit Magazine,
2 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Ultraviolet light from its host star triggers the creation of sulfur dioxide in the upper atmosphere, and a massive sub-surface magma ocean acts as a buffer, storing and releasing volatile gases over billions of years.—
Mrigakshi Dixit,
Interesting Engineering,
16 Mar. 2026
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Spray the multi-surface cleaner onto a damp cloth.—
Tessa Cooper,
The Spruce,
16 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Skin-deep.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/skin-deep. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.
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