Homonym: vane (Indicator)
A "vane" is a flat or curved piece of material that is used to indicate the direction of the wind. You often see vanes on top of buildings, known as weather vanes, which spin to show which way the wind is blowing. This helps people understand weather patterns and can be a decorative feature as well.
In addition to weather vanes, the term "vane" can also refer to parts of machines, like in turbines or fans. These vanes help direct airflow or fluid movement, making them essential for efficient operation. Overall, vanes play a crucial role in both nature and technology.