flotation

American  

[floh-tey-shuhn] / floʊˈteɪ ʃən /

Rarely floatation

noun

1. an act or state of floating.

2. the launching of a commercial venture, bond issue, loan, etc.

3. Metallurgy. a process for separating the different minerals in a mass of powdered ore based on their tendency to sink in, or float on, a given liquid.

4. the science of floating bodies.

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flotation British  

/ fləʊˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. 1. the launching or financing of a commercial enterprise by bond or share issues

   2. the raising of a loan or new capital by bond or share issues

2. power or ability to float; buoyancy

3. Also called: froth flotation.  a process to concentrate the valuable ore in low-grade ores. The ore is ground to a powder, mixed with water containing surface-active chemicals, and vigorously aerated. The bubbles formed trap the required ore fragments and carry them to the surface froth, which is then skimmed off

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Etymology

Origin of flotation

First recorded in 1800–10; float + -ation; compare French flottaison ( flotsam )

Example Sentences

The chain is improbable but unmistakable: Harrison’s protest, the flotation of Northern Songs, Grade’s takeover, Jackson’s coup, Sony’s consolidation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 20, 2026

He says the move could even open up future processing options, including adding a conventional flotation circuit if later exploration supports it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 30, 2025

Four sleeping pods are due to be installed, while there will also be an area for red light therapy and also dry flotation tanks.

From BBC • Aug. 8, 2025

Life jackets are optional for adults, but every boat must carry enough personal flotation devices for every passenger.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 24, 2025

The flotation belt must be acid resistant, since it looks as good as new.

From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins

Related Words

• backing