Definition

A type of airplane that has floats instead of wheels, allowing it to land on and take off from water.

Example

The floatplane landed smoothly on the lake, ready to pick up passengers.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a floatplane take off from the lake?

No, I haven't! That sounds really cool.

I watched one last summer, and it was amazing to see how it glided over the water.

I bet! I would love to ride in a floatplane someday.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Floatplane → It is formed from "float" (from Old English *flōtan*, meaning to float or to flow) and "plane" (from Latin *planus*, meaning flat or level). The word describes an aircraft designed to take off and land on water, hence it floats on the surface.

Memory Tip

Think of an aircraft that 'floats' on water ('float') and is 'flat' ('plane') — that's how a floatplane operates.

Visually Confused Words