[van] n [ME, fr. MF, fr. L vannus--more at winnow] (14c) 1 dial Eng: a winnowing device (as a fan)
2: wing 1a
[2]van n [by shortening] (1610): vanguard [3]van n [short for caravan] (1829) 1 a: a usu. enclosed wagon or motortruck used for transportation of goods or animals; also: caravan 2a b: a multipurpose enclosed motor vehicle having a boxlike shape, rear or side doors, and side panels often with windows c: a detachable passenger cabin transportable by aircraft or truck
2. chiefly Brit: an enclosed railroad freight or baggage car [4]van vt vanned ; van.ning (1840): to transport by van