flotation

noun

1. (countable, uncountable)A state of floating, or being afloat.
2. (countable, uncountable)The ability (as of a tire or snowshoes) to stay on the surface of soft ground or snow.
3. (countable, uncountable)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. (British, countable, uncountable)The launching onto the market of a tranche of stocks or shares, usually a new issue.