subsuperficial
Subsuperficial is an adjective used mainly in technical disciplines to denote a position just below the superficial layer of a structure. In everyday language, this nuance is usually conveyed with terms like subsurface or subepidermal; subsuperficial is considered specialized and relatively rare.
From Latin sub-, meaning under, combined with superficial, from Latin superficialis.
In anatomy, subsuperficial tissues lie immediately beneath the epidermis. In geology or soil science, it can
Because of infrequent use, definitions vary by field and some style guides discourage its use; readers should
Illustrative examples in discussions of skin structure or soil horizons may occasionally employ the term, though
Related terms include superficial, subsurface, subepidermal, and subcutaneous.