Definition for Van (-s)

van (-s), n. [1. Welsh fan, occurring in place-names in S. Wales. 2. Shortening of vanguard, OFr avangarde.]

  1. Vanguard; front of an army; first line of a group; foremost division of a fleet in sailing or in battle. J1242/Fr1343 Birds with surprise / Would scan the cowering Van / Of men escaping / From the mind of man
  2. Flock; group of creatures. J1364/Fr1412 Birds examine it and flee / And Vans without a name / Inspect the Admonition / And sunder as they came

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