Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

Afloat

Afloat (ȧ*flōt") , adverb and adjective

[Prefix a- + float.]

1.
Borne on the water; floating; on board ship.
On such a full sea are we now afloat. — Shakespeare
2.
Moving; passing from place to place; in general circulation; as, a rumor is afloat.
3.
Unfixed; moving without guide or control; adrift; as, our affairs are all afloat.
4.
Covered with water bearing floating articles; flooded; as, the decks are afloat.