Adrift

A vessel that is floating without being anchored, moored, or under control, often at the mercy of wind and currents. 

Adrift describes a situation where a boat, ship, or other floating object is not secured or under any form of control. When a vessel is adrift, it is not anchored, tied to a dock, or being actively steered by its crew. Instead, it is left to float freely, subject to the natural forces of wind, tides, and currents. This can occur unintentionally, such as when a vessel breaks free from its moorings, loses propulsion, or intentionally, in certain situations where a vessel is allowed to drift. 

Adrift can be dangerous in open waters or near hazards like rocks, reefs, or other vessels. A vessel adrift may collide with obstacles, run aground, or drift into shipping lanes, creating a risk of accidents. Sometimes, a vessel may be set adrift deliberately, such as when a ship is abandoned or when a small boat is released from a larger ship. 

In maritime law, a vessel that is adrift and abandoned may be considered salvageable, meaning that another party could claim rights to it if they recover it. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe situations where something or someone is lacking direction or control, but in the context of marine terminology, it specifically refers to the uncontrolled movement of a vessel on the water.