Crossword Genius

Notice split when floating away (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

adrift

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'floating away' is the definition.
'adrift' can be an answer for 'floating' (thesaurus). I am unsure of the 'away' bit.

'notice split' is the wordplay.
'notice' becomes 'ad' (short for advert).
'split' becomes 'rift' (I've seen this in other clues).
'ad'+'rift'='ADRIFT'

'when' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for adrift that I've seen before include "Unsettled or unanchored" , "getting nowhere?" , "Floating unattached as at sea" , "without purpose or direction" , "Loose from moorings" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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