B2verb1K

Float

UK /["/fləʊt/","/fləʊts/","/ˈfləʊtɪd/","/ˈfləʊtɪŋ/"]/US /["/fləʊt/","/fləʊts/","/ˈfləʊtɪd/","/ˈfləʊtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to move slowly on water or in the air

In simple words: To rest on the surface of a liquid or move lightly in the air.

Examples

  • The boat began to float gently on the calm water.
  • He watched the leaves float down the river during autumn.
  • They decided to float the idea of a new project during the meeting.
  • Some balloons may float away if not tied properly.
  • In the art show, the sculpture appears to float in mid-air.

Usage notes

Often used when describing how objects behave in water or how something moves lightly in the wind. Not used in formal writing when discussing serious topics.

Grammar pattern

float + object

Memory hint

Think of a boat floating on water — it stays on top!

Collocations

  • gently
  • slowly
  • downstream
  • seem to
  • across
  • down
  • in
  • gently
  • slowly
  • downstream
  • seem to
  • across
  • down
  • in
  • gently
  • slowly
  • downstream
  • seem to
  • across
  • down
  • in
  • freely
  • allow something to

Synonyms

  • glide

Antonyms

  • sink
  • submerge

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'flot' which is not a word.
  • Using 'float' incorrectly as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'floot' instead of 'float'.