VocabDictionary

van

/væn/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A medium-sized motor vehicle, typically box-shaped, used for transporting goods or groups of people.

Example Sentences:
  • The delivery driver loaded the packages into the back of the van.
  • We rented a large van to transport all our camping gear for the weekend.
2.noun

The forefront or leading position of an army, movement, or trend.

Example Sentences:
  • The company remains in the van of technological innovation.
  • The scouts were sent out in the van of the main army.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “van”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

A shortened form of 'caravan', which entered English in the mid-17th century from the French 'caravane', ultimately derived from the Persian 'kārvān', referring to a group of travelers or merchants journeying together.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'VAN' as a 'V'ehicle 'A'lways 'N'eeding space for cargo.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “van

1. What is the meaning of “van” in English?

In English, van (noun) is defined as: “A medium-sized motor vehicle, typically box-shaped, used for transporting goods or groups of people.”.

2. How do you use “van” in a sentence?

The delivery driver loaded the packages into the back of the van.

3. What are English synonyms of “van”?

Common synonyms include:minibus,camper,transporter,forefront

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “van”?

A shortened form of 'caravan', which entered English in the mid-17th century from the French 'caravane', ultimately derived from the Persian 'kārvān', referring to a group of travelers or merchants journeying together.