The phrase "to break the surface" means to emerge or appear after being hidden or submerged.
Sentences with «to break the surface»
The writers here will barely break the surface of the skill in four days, but when they leave they will be aware that it is a skill. (deanwesleysmith.com)
Because the bubbles by themselves can not break the surface tension, they build up underneath the surface. (epicurious.com)
The old - school rear suspension becomes obvious on broken surfaces. (edmunds.com)