adv

• (figurative, of ideas, information, etc.) In or into circulation or currency.
  "setting a lie aflote"
• (obsolete, figurative, of an emotional state) In or into a condition of stimulation, arousal, confusion, bewilderment, etc.
  "No angry passions rise to disturb the silent progress of the work, […] no irritable humours are set afloat:"

adj

• (figurative) Covered, overspread, filled (with or in something).
  "The larch-wood was afloat with clear, lyric green,"
• (of an organization) Having just enough resources to continue to operate; barely able to pay expenses; (of a private individual, family, etc.) keeping one's head above water.
  "The donation will keep our business afloat for quite a while."
• (figurative, of ideas, information, etc.) Believed or talked about by many people; being passed from person to person.
  "The supervisor was never fired, though countless accusations of dishonesty were afloat."
• (obsolete, figurative, of an emotional state) Stimulated, aroused, activated.
  "You’ll find, when once my passion is afloat, / The soul of Caesar, in a petticoat!"

prep

• (obsolete) Floating upon.
  "early 1600s, John Webster and William Rowley, The Thracian Wonder, London: Thomas Johnson, 1661, Act I, Scene 1, But Huswife, as for you, / You with your Brat, wee’l send afloat the Main,"