Fan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fan
[fæn ]
Definitions
cooling
A device with rotating blades that creates a current of air for cooling or ventilation.
Synonyms
air circulator, blower, ventilator.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fan |
Commonly used to describe a device that creates airflow to cool down people or rooms. It can be for personal use or installed in rooms and buildings.
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| blower |
Often refers to a more powerful device used to move large volumes of air. Commonly used in industrial settings or for tasks like clearing leaves or inflating large structures.
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| air circulator |
Typically refers to a device designed to move air around a room to improve ventilation rather than just cool one area. Often used in larger spaces or to promote better air quality.
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Examples of usage
- She turned on the fan to cool down the room.
- The fan in the corner was making a lot of noise.
enthusiast
A person who has a strong interest or admiration for a particular sport, art form, or famous person.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fan |
This word is commonly used to refer to someone who has a strong interest in a particular person, sport, or entertainment medium, like music or movies.
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| admirer |
This term is often used to describe someone who has a deep respect or affection for a person, often from a distance. It can imply a more personal or romantic interest.
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| supporter |
This term is used to describe someone who gives assistance, encouragement, or approval to a person, cause, or policy. It can also refer to someone who roots for a sports team.
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| devotee |
This word typically refers to someone who enthusiastically follows a particular activity, practice, or person, often with a sense of dedication or religious fervor.
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Examples of usage
- He is a huge fan of basketball and never misses a game.
- She became a fan of the singer after attending their concert.
propeller
A device for creating a current of air or gas by rapid rotation of a set of vanes or blades.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fan |
Can also mean an enthusiastic admirer or supporter, usually of a sports team or a celebrity.
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| propeller |
Specifically used for the device that moves an aircraft or a boat by rotating blades.
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| rotor |
Typically used in mechanical and engineering contexts to describe the rotating part of a machine, especially in helicopters.
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| blade |
Refers to the flat cutting part of a tool or the individual flat parts of a fan or propeller.
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Examples of usage
- The airplane's engine had a large fan to provide thrust.
- The windmill's blades acted as a fan to generate power.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- The first electric fan was invented in 1882 by Schuyler Skaats Wheeler, revolutionizing how people could stay cool indoors.
- Computer fans are essential for cooling down hardware, preventing overheating, and ensuring optimal performance.
Sports and Entertainment
- In sports, the term 'fan' implies an enthusiastic supporter, derived from 'fanatic,' showcasing how passion for a team can create a sense of community.
- Fan conventions are events where fans of shows, movies, or books gather, often celebrating their favorite characters and stories through cosplay and discussions.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, fans are intricately designed and serve not only functional purposes but also artistic expressions, like in traditional Japanese culture.
- During hot summer months, using fans is a common practice in parts of Asia, where restaurants and homes may employ both electric and hand fans to provide relief from the heat.
Psychology
- The presence of a fan in a room can enhance comfort levels, which, in turn, may affect mood and productivity in work environments.
- Studies suggest that the sound of a fan can provide white noise, helping some people concentrate better by masking distracting sounds.
Origin of 'fan'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'fan' is derived from the Latin word 'vannus,' which means a winnowing fan used to separate grain from chaff.
- In English, 'fan' originally referred to an instrument for waving to create a breeze; it has evolved to encompass various types of air-moving devices.
The word 'fan' originated in the late 17th century and is believed to come from the Latin word 'vannus' meaning 'winnowing fan'. The concept of a fan as a device for creating air currents has evolved over time, with various uses in cooling, ventilation, and as a symbol of admiration. The term 'fan' to describe an enthusiast or admirer of a particular subject became popular in the 19th century, particularly in the context of sports and entertainment.