The term 'broke the surface' can be summarized as 'EMERGED'. This phrase is often used to describe a situation in which something has come out of a hidden or submerged state and is now visible. It is commonly used to refer to a person or object that has risen up from a body of water, such as a submarine or a swimmer. It can also be used to describe a situation in which something has been revealed or uncovered, such as a secret or a discovery.