1. the action or process of floating or remaining buoyant in water or another liquid
Usage: also spelled 'flotation'; common in technical and safety contexts
2. a device or system designed to keep a person or object afloat in water
Usage: often used in plural or in compound forms like 'floatation device'
3. the process of offering shares of a company to the public for the first time
Usage: finance and business context; also spelled 'flotation'

Examples

• The floatation of the raft depended on the sealed air chambers inside.
• All passengers were required to wear a floatation device during the boat tour.
• The company's floatation on the stock exchange was highly anticipated by investors.
• Swimmers use floatation aids to build confidence in the water.
• The ship's floatation was compromised after the collision with the reef.
• Engineers tested the floatation capacity of the new design before production.