Homonym: Vane (Indicator)
A "vane" is a device that shows the direction of the wind. It is commonly found on rooftops, where it is often called a weather vane. The design usually features an arrow or a figure that spins freely on a vertical axis, pointing into the wind. This helps people understand wind patterns, which can be useful for various activities, including sailing and farming.
Vanes can also be used in other contexts, such as in anemometers, which measure wind speed. In addition, wind turbines utilize vanes to optimize their position for energy generation. Overall, vanes play a significant role in understanding and harnessing wind energy.