flotilla
Translation
flotilla, small fleet
Examples
A flotilla of small fishing boats left the harbour.
A flotilla of small fishing boats left the harbor.
The naval flotilla was on a training exercise.
The naval flotilla was on a training exercise.
Grammar Patterns
((a flotilla of sth.)) a small fleet of sth. A flotilla of yachts sailed past.
Similar Words
Synonyms: fleet, squadron, armada
Etymology
From Spanish 'flotilla', which is the diminutive of 'flota' (fleet), meaning 'a little fleet'.
Memory Tips
The '-illa' ending is a diminutive in Spanish, meaning 'small'. Think of it as a 'little floating' group of ships.