van

word

/ˈvæn/
van
/vˈæn/
van

Definition

A van is a road vehicle that is larger than a car and is used to carry people or goods. Some vans are mainly for families or groups, while others are used for work or deliveries.

Usage & Nuances

Common collocations include 'delivery van', 'cargo van', and 'passenger van'. In American English, 'van' is very common; in British English, 'van' often overlaps with 'van' for work vehicles and 'minivan/people carrier' for family use. Don't confuse it with 'truck', which is usually larger and mainly for heavy loads.

Example Sentences

The van is parked in front of the house.

basic

We use a van to move the boxes.

basic

Their family has a big van.

basic

The delivery van showed up earlier than expected.

natural

Can we all fit in your van, or should we take two cars?

natural

He turned his old van into a tiny home and drove across the country.

natural