floats; floated; floating
1
a
: to rest on top of a liquid
She was floating on her back.
ice floating in the river
Will this material sink or float?
b
: to be carried along by moving water or air
The raft floated downstream.
dust floating through the air
2
a
: to cause (something) to rest on top of a liquid : to cause (something) to float
The incoming tide will eventually float the ship off the reef.
b
: to cause or allow (something) to be carried or moved by moving water
They floated the logs down the river.
3
: to move or go in a gentle, graceful, or quiet way
She floated gracefully across the stage.
His voice floated to the back of the room.
—sometimes used figurativelyShe floated off to sleep.
4
: to live without having any serious purpose or goal
He floated through life without ever settling down.
5
: to suggest (an idea, plan, etc.) for acceptance
Someone floated this idea for a new book.
6
US
: to make arrangements for (a loan)
They may have to float a loan to raise the money for renovations.
Could you float me a loan? [=could you lend money to me?]
7
finance
: to sell (shares in a company) in the market
The company has announced plans to raise capital by floating a new issue of securities next month.
8
of a government
: to allow the value of a currency when it is exchanged for other types of currency to change freely
float a currency
allow a currency to float
plural floats
1
: something that floats: such as
a
: a light object that is attached to a fishing line
b
: a floating platform near a shore for use by swimmers or boats
c
: a structure that holds up an airplane on water
2
: a vehicle with a platform used to carry an exhibit in a parade
We are building a float for the homecoming parade.
3
US
: a soft drink with ice cream floating in it
a root beer float
4
British
: an amount of money that is kept available for making change in a shop
Cite this Entry
“Float.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/float. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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