Often used when talking about the sea and things found in or near it. After the storm, the harbor was littered with flotsam.
Pro Tip 2/3
Negative Connotation
Indicates unwanted items, sometimes with a sense of disorder or mess. The flotsam on the beach spoiled the natural beauty of the coastline.
Pro Tip 3/3
Metaphorical Use
Can be used metaphorically to describe a collection of miscellaneous or unconnected items. His mind was filled with the flotsam of obscure facts and trivia.