Definition

Describing something that is supported by a liquid or air and is not sinking; it can also refer to something that is not fixed in one place and can move around easily.

Example

The floating boat drifted gently on the lake.

Conversation

I saw a really cool picture of a floating house on the lake.

That sounds amazing! Was it like a tiny house or a big one?

It was a big one, and it looked so peaceful just floating there.

I’d love to live in a place like that, surrounded by water.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Floating → It is formed from "float" (from Old English *flōtan*, meaning to flow or float) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process of). The word "floating" refers to the action or process of being buoyant or resting on the surface of a liquid.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'flowing' ('flōtan') on the surface of water — that's why 'floating' means to be on the surface.

Visually Confused Words