Van , v. t. [Cf. F. vanner to winnow, to fan. See Van a winnowing machine.]
To fan, or to cleanse
by fanning; to winnow. [Obs.] Bacon.
Van , n. [L. vannus a van, or fan for winnowing grain: cf. F. van. Cf. Fan, Van a wing
Winnow.]
1.
A fan or
other contrivance, as a sieve, for winnowing grain.
2. [OF. vanne, F. vanneau beam feather (cf. It. vanno a wing) fr. L. vannus. See Etymology above.] A wing with which the air
is beaten. [Archaic] "[/Angels] on the air plumy
vans received him. " Milton.
He wheeled in air, and
stretched his vans in vain;
His vans no longer could his flight sustain.
Dryden.
Van , n. [Abbreviated from caravan.]
1. A light wagon, either covered or open, used by tradesmen and others fore the transportation of goods. [Eng.]
2. A large covered wagon for moving furniture, etc., also for conveying wild beasts, etc., for exhibition.
3.
A close railway car for baggage. See the Note under Car, 2.
[Eng.]
Van , v. t. (Mining)
To wash or cleanse, as a small portion of ore, on a shovel. Raymond.
Van , n. [Cornish.]
(Mining)
A shovel used in cleansing ore.
Van (?), n. [Abbrev. fr.
vanguard.]
The front of
an army; the
first line or leading column; also, the front line or foremost division of a fleet, either in sailing or in
battle.
Standards and gonfalons, twixt van and rear,
Stream in the air.
Milton.
Hear it pronounced