weather-vane
Definition
- Noun:
- A device for showing wind direction: A "weather-vane" is a metal object, often shaped like an arrow or a rooster, that is fixed to the top of a building and rotates to indicate the direction from which the wind is blowing.
Usage Examples
- (A rotating metal arrow used to show wind direction.)
- (A decorative and functional wind-direction indicator.)
Advanced Usage
- "to be a weather-vane": Used metaphorically to describe something or someone that shows the direction of trends or public opinion.
- The stock market is a weather-vane for the health of the economy. (The stock market indicates economic trends.)
- Her mood was a weather-vane for the team's morale. (Her mood reflected the team's general spirits.)
Variants and Related Words
Weathercock (n): A weather-vane, especially one shaped like a rooster.
- The weathercock on the steeple spun wildly in the storm. (A rooster-shaped weather-vane.)
Vane (n): A shortened form of "weather-vane," or a similar blade used in windmills or turbines.
- The vane on the windmill turned slowly. (A blade that catches the wind.)
Synonyms
- Wind vane: a device for showing wind direction.
- Wind indicator: any instrument that shows the direction of the wind.
Related Idioms
- "As changeable as a weather-vane": Used to describe someone or something that changes opinions or direction very easily.
- His political views are as changeable as a weather-vane. (His opinions shift frequently with the wind of public opinion.)
Additional Notes
- Spelling note: "Weather-vane" is often written with a hyphen, but "weather vane" (without a hyphen) is also common. Both are acceptable.