FLOAT DEFINED

float

(flōt) Pronunciation Key v. float·ed, float·ing, floats v. intr. To remain suspended within or on the surface of a fluid without sinking. To be suspended in or move through space as if supported by a liquid. To move from place to place, especially at random. To move easily or lightly: "Miss Golightly . . . floated round in their arms light as a scarf" (Truman Capote). Economics To find a level in relationship to other currencies solely in response to the law of supply and demand: allowed the dollar to float. v. tr. To cause to remain suspended without sinking or falling. To put into the water; launch: float a ship; float a navy. To start or establish (a business enterprise, for example). To flood (land), as for irrigation. Economics To allow (the exchange value of a currency) to find freely its real level in relationship to other currencies. To offer for consideration; suggest: floated my idea to the committee. To release (a security) for sale. To arrange for (a loan). To make the surface of (plaster, for example) level or smooth. Computer Science To convert (data) from fixed-point notation to floating-point notation. n. Something that floats, as: A raft. A buoy. A life preserver. A buoyant object, such as a cork, used to hold a net or fishing line afloat. A landing platform attached to a wharf and floating on the water. A floating ball attached to a lever to regulate the water level in a tank. Biology An air-filled sac or structure that aids in the flotation of an aquatic organism. Also called air bladder, air vesicle. A decorated exhibit or scene mounted on a mobile platform and pulled or driven in a parade. A sum of money representing checks that are outstanding. A tool for smoothing the surface of plaster or cement. A soft drink with ice cream floating in it. See Regional Note at milk shake.