float
verb (used without object)
to rest or remain on the surface of a liquid; be buoyant.
had floated
-
past perfectof float.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
There was sharp backlash earlier this year when Bloomberg reported that Kirby had floated the idea of a merger between United and American in a meeting with President Trump.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 26, 2026
Angola said Monday it had floated to President Felix Tshisekedi proposals to end the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and that the Congolese leader had found them "interesting".
From Barron's ● Jan. 5, 2026
A scan revealed a bone chip that had floated down to the Achilles tendon as well as several bone spurs.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 2, 2025
No Labels had floated former Republican Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, a failed 2024 GOP presidential contender, as possible "unity ticket" candidates.
From Salon ● Apr. 5, 2024
The air grew warm and very still under the great moist clouds that had floated up from the South and the distant seas.
From "The Fellowship of the Ring" by J.R.R. Tolkien
