vane
|vane|
/veɪn/
a flat blade or plate that shows or directs wind/air
Etymology
'vane' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'fana', where the root meant 'cloth' or 'banner'.
'vane' changed from Old English 'fana' (meaning 'banner, flag') and through Middle English forms (e.g. 'vane') came to be used in modern English; the sense broadened from 'flag' to include thin plates or blades used to show direction or guide flow.
Initially, it meant 'banner' or 'flag', but over time it evolved into its current primary meanings of 'instrument showing wind direction' and 'flat blade or plate that directs air or fluid.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a device, often mounted on a roof or post, that rotates to show the direction of the wind (also called a weather vane).
The old vane on the barn pointed steadily to the north.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a flat or curved blade or plate used in machines (pumps, turbines, fans) to direct, control, or measure the flow of air or fluid.
The technician inspected the pump's vanes for signs of wear.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/08/27 13:18