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surface area

American  
[sur-fis air-ee-uh] / ˈsɜr fɪs ˌɛər i ə /

noun

  1. the total space occupied by all surfaces or faces of an object.


Etymology

Origin of surface area

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The strong magnetic region over Canada has shrunk by 0.65% of Earth's surface area, roughly the size of India.

From Science Daily

Respiratory turbinates are thin, scroll shaped bones inside the nasal cavity that increase surface area, allowing blood and air to exchange heat more efficiently.

From Science Daily

The bigger the surface area of the suits, the more flight in the air.

From BBC

Structures that increase surface area can assist with releasing or conserving heat.

From Science Daily

If a ski jumper happens to require a slightly bigger suit, the broader surface area allows him to catch more air and fly even longer.

From The Wall Street Journal