To float something; to set something afloat or let it float on a surface (transitive).
子どもたちは小さな紙の船を池に浮かべた。
The children floated small paper boats on the pond.
祭りの夜、灯篭を川に浮かべた。
On the night of the festival, we floated lanterns on the river.
皿に花びらを浮かべてテーブルを飾った。
She decorated the table by floating flower petals in a dish.
To show a look or expression on one's face (e.g., to wear a smile or a sad expression).
彼は嬉しそうな笑みを浮かべた。
He wore a look of happiness / he smiled happily.
その知らせを聞いて、彼女は驚きの表情を浮かべた。
Upon hearing the news, she showed a surprised expression.
薄ら笑いを浮かべながら、彼は部屋を出て行った。
With a faint smile on his face, he left the room.
To call to mind or imagine something; to bring an image or memory to the mind.
母の顔を思い浮かべながら手紙を書いた。
I wrote the letter while imagining my mother's face.
昔の夏祭りの情景を浮かべると、懐かしい気持ちになる。
When I picture the old summer festival scenes, I feel nostalgic.
その言葉を聞くと、自然と昔の出来事が浮かんだ。
Hearing that word naturally brought back memories of past events.