flotation

noun

flo·​ta·​tion flō-ˈtā-shən 

variants or less commonly floatation

1

: the act, process, or state of floating

2

: an act or instance of financing (such as an issue of stock)

3

: the separation of the particles of a mass of pulverized ore according to their relative capacity for floating on a given liquid

also : any of various similar processes involving the relative capacity of materials for floating

4

: the ability (as of a tire or snowshoes) to stay on the surface of soft ground or snow

Examples of flotation in a Sentence

fills the tanks with air for flotation

the flotation of a currency

Recent Examples on the Web

And multifamily spas have gone well beyond the tiny spas of old to incorporate the latest spa technology, from touchless treatment options to zero-gravity flotation pods, wearable wellness devices and infrared and LED light therapies. —Jeffrey Steele, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

Waterfall showers and a saltwater flotation experience are highlights of the hydrothermal gardens at the new 50,000 square foot Kiolani Spa at Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort on Maui. —Jen Murphy, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Dec. 2024

The online fashion group has been engaged in ongoing discussions with the British government after shelving its flotation bid in the U.S. amid pushback over its ties to Beijing and broader labor practices. —Karen Gilchrist,katrina Bishop, CNBC, 16 Dec. 2024

After the failure of the NASDAQ flotation, that valuation looks very optimistic. —Dermot Corrigan, The Athletic, 8 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

float entry 2 + -ation

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing flotation

• flotation device

Kids Definition

flotation

noun

flo·​ta·​tion

variants also floatation

flō-ˈtā-shən

1

: the act, process, or state of floating

2

: the separation of the particles of a mass of ground ore according to how they compare in ability to float on a liquid