float
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: floats · floated
Sense 1
To be supported by a fluid of greater density (than the object).
Verb
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
To be supported by a fluid of greater density (than the object). — To be supported by a liquid of greater density, such that part (of the object or substance) remains above the surface.
Verb
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
A buoyant device used to support something in water or another liquid.
Noun
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 4
A mass of timber or boards fastened together, and conveyed down a stream by the current; a raft.
Noun
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “float” mean?
To be supported by a fluid of greater density (than the object).
Is “float” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.