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flotation device

flotation device

5 3.3
Something that helps a person float in water and avoid drowning
  • noun
  • /floʊˈteɪʃən dɪˈvaɪs/
translation icon : 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
12 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
10 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
3 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
4.1

An inflatable vest that keeps you afloat in water

is any buoyant equipment rather than only inflatable garments

How Buoyant

life raft
7 2.9
flotation device
5 3.3
life jacket
16 1.4
life buoy
  • UK
1 3.2
float
8 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'.