van
1. van \'van\ n [ME, fr. MF, fr. L vannus - more at WINNOW] dial Eng 1: a winnowing device (as a fan) 2: WING 2. van n [by shortening] : VANGUARD 3. van n [short for caravan] 1: a usu. enclosed wagon or motortruck used for transportation of goods or animals chiefly Brit 2: an enclosed railroad freight or baggage car