fan

A1
Pronunciation
/fæn/
Noun
8 definition(s)
1 Definition

A hand-held device consisting of concertinaed material, or slats of material, gathered together at one end, that may be opened out into the shape of a sector of a circle and waved back and forth in order to move air towards oneself and cool oneself.

2 Definition

An electrical or mechanical device for moving air, used for cooling people, machinery, etc.

3 Definition

The action of fanning; agitation of the air.

4 Definition

Anything resembling a hand-held fan in shape, e.g., a peacock’s tail.

5 Definition

An instrument for winnowing grain, by moving which the grain is tossed and agitated, and the chaff is separated and blown away.

6 Definition

A small vane or sail, used to keep the large sails of a smock mill always in the direction of the wind.

7 Definition

A section of a tree having a finite number of branches

8 Definition

A person who is fond of something or someone, especially an admirer of a performer or aficionado of a sport.

Example Sentences
  • I am a big fan of libraries.
Verb
7 definition(s)
1 Definition

To blow air on (something) by means of a fan (hand-held, mechanical or electrical) or otherwise.

Example Sentences
  • We enjoyed standing at the edge of the cliff, being fanned by the wind.
2 Definition

To slap (a behind, especially).

3 Definition

(usually to fan out) To move or spread in multiple directions from one point, in the shape of a hand-held fan.

4 Definition

To dispel by waving a hand-held fan.

Example Sentences
  • I attempted to fan the disagreeable odour out of the room.
5 Definition

To perform a maneuver that involves flicking the top rear of an old-style gun.

6 Definition

(metaphoric) To invigorate, like flames when fanned.

7 Definition

To winnow grain.