Meaning of 'float'

noun

an air-filled sac near the spinal column in many fishes that helps maintain buoyancy

Synonyms: air bladder

noun

something that floats on the surface of water

noun

a hand tool with a flat face used for smoothing and finishing the surface of plaster or cement or stucco

Synonyms: plasterer's float

noun

an elaborate display mounted on a platform carried by a truck (or pulled by a truck) in a procession or parade

noun

a drink with ice cream floating in it

Synonyms: ice-cream soda ice-cream float

noun

the number of shares outstanding and available for trading by the public

noun

the time interval between the deposit of a check in a bank and its payment

verb

convert from a fixed point notation to a floating point notation

Example: "float data"

verb

allow (currencies) to fluctuate

Example: "The government floated the ruble for a few months"

verb

make the surface of level or smooth

Example: "float the plaster"

verb

put into the water

Example: "float a ship"

verb

move lightly, as if suspended

Example: "The dancer floated across the stage"

verb

set afloat

Example: "The sawyers floated the logs down the river to the mill."

verb

be in motion due to some air or water current

Synonyms: blow

verb

be afloat either on or below a liquid surface and not sink to the bottom

Synonyms: swim

verb

circulate or discuss tentatively