float
Translation
to float, to drift
Examples
A leaf can float on water.
A leaf can float on water.
Balloons float in the air.
Balloons float in the air.
He floated the idea at the meeting.
He floated the idea at the meeting.
Grammar Patterns
((on sth.)) to rest on the surface of (a liquid) A leaf can float on water.
((in sth.)) to move gently through (the air/space) Balloons float in the air.
((sth.)) to suggest (an idea) for consideration He floated the idea at the meeting.
Similar Words
Synonyms: drift, hover, glide; Antonyms: sink, submerge
Etymology
From Old English 'flotian' meaning 'to rest on the surface of water'. Of Germanic origin.
Memory Tips
Imagine a boat floating on the water. The 'oa' sound in 'float' is like in 'boat'.