# flotilla

/fɫoʊˈtɪɫə/ (US) · /flətˈɪlɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flotilla
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a group of small boats or ships that travel together for a specific reason, like a parade or a race.

For teachers: a group of small boats or ships sailing together, typically for a specific purpose such as a parade, a race, or a military operation.

## Examples

- The city held a colorful flotilla to celebrate the summer.
- A small flotilla of fishing vessels gathered in the harbor to protest the new fishing restrictions.
- The naval flotilla moved slowly through the narrow strait, its formation designed to protect the lead ship from potential ambushes by the coastal defenders.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.