English Expression · Intermediate
flotsam and jetsam
The remains of a shipwreck still floating in the water
Pronunciation: say flotsam and jetsam
Meaning
Items of debris or refuse, especially from a shipwreck, or figuratively, miscellaneous items or people of little value.
Example
The beach was littered with the flotsam and jetsam of the recent storm.
The beach was littered with the flotsam and jetsam of the recent storm.
Practice tips
- Practice flotsam and jetsam out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.