Levitation: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in magical or sci-fi settings where an object or person is lifted into the air without physical support.

• The magician's act included the levitation of his assistant.
• The ancient ruins had inscriptions about the levitation of the stone blocks by unknown means.

Used to describe the act of moving through the air with control, often referring to birds, airplanes, or superhero characters.

• Birds were flying south for the winter.
• The Wright brothers were famous for their experiments in flying.

Best used to describe something staying on the surface of a liquid or moving gently through the air, often implying a lack of control or stability.

• Leaves were floating on the surface of the pond.
• The balloon was floating away into the sky.

Used when something or someone remains in the air in one place, often for short periods and associated with drones, helicopters, or sometimes insects.

• The helicopter was hovering over the landing pad.
• The hummingbird was hovering near the flower.

Used to describe the act of floating or rising in the air, often through mystical or magical means.

• The magician's show featured a captivating act of levitation
• She appeared to be levitating above the stage

Describes an object being held or hanging in place, typically from above, or the temporary stopping of a process or activity. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to disciplinary actions or halting of services.

• The bridge's design included a system of suspension cables
• The player faced a suspension from the team for breaking the rules

Refers to the height of a place above a fixed point, often above sea level, or the act of raising something to a higher position or status. It can be used in geographical, physical, or metaphorical contexts.

• The hikers checked the elevation to ensure they were prepared for the climb
• The elevation of the new manager boosted the company's morale

Used to describe the act of raising something or someone to a higher level, especially in terms of spirit or mood. It can also refer to geological processes where land is raised.

• The success of the project provided a significant uplift in the team's morale
• The geological uplift formed the mountain range over millions of years

Used when referring to something or someone hovering in the air, often by supernatural or magical means.

• The magician's trick involved the levitation of a table.
• In many myths, saints were said to possess the power of levitation.

Applied when something stays on the surface of a liquid or air without sinking. Used in everyday contexts.

• Leaves float on the surface of the pond.
• The balloon will float away if you let it go.

Used to talk about moving upward, especially in a formal or grand context like climbing a mountain or advancing to a higher position.

• The hikers began to ascend the steep trail.
• She will ascend to the position of CEO next year.

Commonly used to describe the action of moving upwards, either physically or in terms of improvement or increase.

• The sun will rise at 6 AM tomorrow.
• He managed to rise through the company ranks quickly.