flotation

noun

flo·​ta·​tion flō-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce flotation (audio)
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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The award-winning Auriga spa, itself located within a pint-sized townhouse, boasts a Himalayan salt room, indoor pool and flotation tanks for the ultimate pampering in a private setting. Livia Hengel, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 According to Newsweek, the Navy has recommended changes to its trainings, as well as a review of flotation equipment policies and man-overboard procedures. Brian Brant, People.com, 12 Oct. 2024 Given Shein’s roots in China, a Hong Kong flotation is not likely to garner the same kind of attention found in the West. Vicki M. Young, Sourcing Journal, 3 Sep. 2019 His destination sweatbox combines a gym with longevity protocols (such as tracking health data on Oura devices; an in-house flotation tank) and includes on-staff PTs. Mark Ellwood, The Hollywood Reporter, 22 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for flotation 

Word History

Etymology

float entry 2 + -ation

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flotation was in 1806

Dictionary Entries Near flotation

Cite this Entry

“Flotation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flotation. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on flotation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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