flotilla

[ floh-til-uh ]

noun

1. a group of small naval vessels, especially a naval unit containing two or more squadrons.
2. a group moving together:

   The governor was followed by a whole flotilla of reporters.

flotilla

/ fləˈtɪlə /

noun

1. a small fleet or a fleet of small vessels

Word History and Origins

Origin of flotilla¹

1705–15; < Spanish, diminutive of flota fleet < French flotte < Old English flota

Word History and Origins

Origin of flotilla¹

C18: from Spanish flota fleet, from French flotte , ultimately from Old Norse floti

Example Sentences

If you doubt that, then take a look at the recent flotilla of boats in the South where boaters were screaming “Make America White Again,” while flying nazi and Trump flags.

From Salon

The leadership has no desire to be a flotilla of small causes.

From BBC

A flotilla of war canoes sat ready to take the king - who has lain in state for six days - to his final resting place on Mount Taupiri, sacred to the Māori people.

From BBC

There has already been a flotilla of excuses and reasons about how and why the shooting in Butler happened.

From Salon

It's a quirky mix of vivid royal spectacle and conservation project, with spectators lining riverbanks and the backs of suburban gardens to watch this flotilla sailing past.

From BBC

Related Words

• armada
• squadron