flotilla
Americannoun
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a group of small naval vessels, especially a naval unit containing two or more squadrons.
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a group moving together.
The governor was followed by a whole flotilla of reporters.
noun
Etymology
Origin of flotilla
1705–15; < Spanish, diminutive of flota fleet < French flotte < Old English flota
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Fellow Brazilian activist Lisi Proenca said the group was applying the experience it gained from the Gaza flotilla to bring aid to Cuba.
From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026
The "Nuestra America" convoy, a flotilla of aid leaving Mexico, was delayed because of rough sea conditions but is expected to arrive in Havana's port on Monday.
From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026
A flotilla from Mexico is also expected to reach Havana by the end of the week.
From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026
Marine flotilla may be on its way to Kharg Island, where it would need constant overhead protection against Iranian drones and missiles.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026
Beyond the arc of the harbor, a flotilla of Red Navy ships patrolled the shore—a sash of crimson in the deep blue sea.
From "The Reader" by Traci Chee
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.