refloat

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /rɪˈfloʊt/

KK: /rɪˈfloʊt/

verb

Definition

To make something that has sunk float again.

Example

The rescue team worked hard to refloat the stranded boat.

Tense Forms

Past: refloated

Past Participle: refloated

Conversation

Did you hear they managed to refloat that sunken boat?

Really? I thought it was lost for good!

Yeah, they used some special equipment to do it.

That's impressive! I love when they find ways to solve tough problems.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

resurface

relaunch

float

Antonyms

sink

submerge

drown

Root Explanation

Refloat → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "float" (from Old English "flōtan", meaning to float or to be buoyant). The word "refloat" means to cause something to float again after it has sunk or become submerged.

Memory Tip

Think of making something float 'again' — 're-' means again, and 'float' refers to being buoyant.

Visually Confused Words

relot