The term 'ability to float' can be described by two crossword solutions: BUOYANCY (8 letters) and WAFT (4 letters). BUOYANCY is the ability of an object to float in a liquid or gas due to its density being less than that of the surrounding medium. WAFT is the act of floating or drifting on air or water currents. Both terms describe the ability of an object to remain afloat, either by being less dense than the surrounding medium or by being carried by air or water currents.