Definition of "afloat" in English

adverb

1. In or into a state of floating.

2. In, or while in, a vessel at sea or on another body of water; at sea.

3. Under water (bearing floating objects).

   • 1695, Edmund Gibson (translator), Camden’s Britannia, London: A. Swalle, “Staffordshire,” […] it [the River Dove] overflows and lays the meadows afloat in April, like another Nile.

4. (figurative, of ideas, information, etc.) In or into circulation or currency.

5. (obsolete, figurative, of an emotional state) In or into a condition of stimulation, arousal, confusion, bewilderment, etc.

adjective

1. Floating.

   • A rubber duck and other toys were afloat in the bath.

2. In, or found while in, a vessel at sea or on another body of water.

3. Floating in the air; flowing freely; not tied, braided, etc. (of hair or clothing)

4. Covered with water, bearing floating objects.

   • The decks are afloat.

5. (figurative) Covered, overspread, filled (with or in something).

6. (of an organization) Having just enough resources to continue to operate; barely able to pay expenses; (of a private individual, family, etc.) keeping one's head above water.

   • The donation will keep our business afloat for quite a while.

7. (figurative, of ideas, information, etc.) Believed or talked about by many people; being passed from person to person.

   • The supervisor was never fired, though countless accusations of dishonesty were afloat.

8. (obsolete, figurative, of an emotional state) Stimulated, aroused, activated.

9. (obsolete, figurative) In a state of confusion, bewilderment, or distraction.

   • 1789, Edward Gibbon, letter to Lord Sheffield dated August 1789, in Miscellaneous Works, London: A. Strahan et al., 1796, p. 201, I know not what to say; my mind is all afloat; yet you will not reproach me with caprice or inconstancy.

preposition

1. (obsolete) Floating upon.

   • early 1600s, John Webster and William Rowley, The Thracian Wonder, London: Thomas Johnson, 1661, Act I, Scene 1, But Huswife, as for you, / You with your Brat, wee’l send afloat the Main,