flotation

• floatation

• (US) IPA^(key): /floʊ̯ˈteɪ̯ʃən/, [floʊ̯ˈtʰeɪ̯ʃɪ̈n]

flotation (countable and uncountable, plural flotations)

1. A state of floating, or being afloat.
2. The ability (as of a tire or snowshoes) to stay on the surface of soft ground or snow.
3. (mining) A process of separating minerals by agitating a mixture with water and detergents etc; selected substances being carried to the surface in air bubbles.
4. (Britain, finance) The launching onto the market of a tranch of stocks or shares, usually a new issue.

• personal flotation device