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flotation device

flotation device

8 3.3
Something that helps a person float in water and avoid drowning
  • noun
  • /floʊˈteɪʃən dɪˈvaɪs/
: dispositivo de flotación
  • Two men were clinging to a flotation device.
  • personal flotation device
  • wear a flotation device

Examples

  • Here's your flotation device.

  • The plane is equipped with flotation devices.

  • May be used as a flotation device in case of emergency.

    Blog text (4)
  • We are well equipped with flotation devices.

  • In the event of a water landing, you will find several flotation devices on board the aircraft.

  • Your seat cushion serves as a flotation device.

  • It explains the safety features of this aircraft as well as the location and operation of the exit and flotation devices.

  • These flotation devices may include seat cushions, headrests, armrests, pillows, or any similar piece of aircraft equipment.

    Blog text (1)
  • Once inside, it took 30 seconds for the co-pilot to unmoor the boat, scramble in, point out the emergency exits and flotation devices, and jump into his seat.

    Blog text (12)
  • In an emergency, having a personal flotation device can save your life.

Synonyms

preserver
vsflotation device
  • US
13 4.1

A floating jacket that keeps a person above water

is the general category name for equipment that prevents drowning
life preserver
vsflotation device
  • US
12 2.5

A ring or jacket that helps a person float in water

is the broader term for equipment used to prevent drowning
life vest
vsflotation device
  • US
8 1.7

A jacket you wear to help you float in water

is a general flotation item, not only that specific sleeveless form
lifesaver
vsflotation device
  • US
2 3.1

A ring that floats and you throw to someone who is drowning

is the broader category which can include worn and thrown items
life buoy
vsflotation device
  • UK
1 3.2

A floating ring used to save people who are drowning

is the general equipment type that also includes wearable items
PFD
vsflotation device
1 4.9

A life jacket or vest that helps you float in water

is the full term rather than the short abbreviated form
air jacket
vsflotation device
1 4.1

An inflatable vest that keeps you afloat in water

is any buoyant equipment rather than only inflatable garments

How Buoyant

life raft
12 2.9
flotation device
8 3.3
life jacket
9 1.4
life buoy
  • UK
1 3.2
float
48 1.1

Surface Forms

Morphology

flotation + device

The meaning 'a manufactured item that provides flotation' is directly and transparently derived from 'flotation' (ability to remain afloat) + 'device' (a practical manufactured item). This compound follows a straightforward noun-noun composition common across languages and would be immediately understandable to a B1 learner who knows both constituents.

Etymology

Flotation device The name flotation device comes from the simple image of flotation, something that helps you 'float', and device, a tool like a jacket or belt you wear on the water. So, it means 'equipment to keep a person afloat' and to prevent 'drowning'.