Float: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

float

 

[ fləʊt ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

mathematics

To move or hover steadily in a liquid or the air without sinking or falling.

Synonyms

drift, glide, hover

Examples of usage

  • The boat floated on the water.
  • The balloon floated in the sky.
Context #2 | Noun

finance

A sum of money that is deposited or invested for a certain period and yields interest.

Synonyms

capital, fund, investment

Examples of usage

  • She put her savings into a high-interest float.
  • The company had a large cash float.

Translations

Translations of the word "float" in other languages:

🇵🇹 flutuar

🇮🇳 तैरना

🇩🇪 schweben

🇮🇩 mengapung

🇺🇦 плавати

🇵🇱 unosić się

🇯🇵 浮く (uku)

🇫🇷 flotter

🇪🇸 flotar

🇹🇷 yüzmek

🇰🇷 떠다니다 (tteodanida)

🇸🇦 يطفو

🇨🇿 plavat

🇸🇰 plávať

🇨🇳 漂浮 (piāofú)

🇸🇮 plavati

🇮🇸 fljóta

🇰🇿 жүзіп жүру

🇬🇪 ცურვა

🇦🇿 üzmək

🇲🇽 flotar

Etymology

The word 'float' originated from the Old English word 'flotian', which means to float or swim. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings in different fields such as mathematics, finance, and even technology. The concept of floating has been integral to human activities, whether on water or in financial markets, making 'float' a versatile and enduring term.

See also: floatability, floating, flotation.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,967 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.