flotation — English Dictionary

Noun

1. A state of floating, or being afloat.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

2. The ability (as of a tire or snowshoes) to stay on the surface of soft ground or snow.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

3. A process of separating minerals by agitating a mixture with water and detergents etc; selected substances being carried to the surface in air bubbles.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

4. The launching onto the market of a tranche of stocks or shares, usually a new issue.

   Usage

   • UK usage
   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Synonyms

   initial public offering

   Examples

   This week's SpaceX flotation is just the latest sign: we are facing regime change not just in technology, but in finance.

Noun

1. the phenomenon of floating (remaining on the surface of a liquid without sinking)

   Synonyms

   floatation

   Broader terms

   physical phenomenon

2. financing a commercial enterprise by bond or stock shares

   Synonyms

   floatation

   Broader terms

   finance