Word: Weathervane
Definition: A weathervane is a mechanical device that is commonly found on rooftops or high places. It rotates freely in the wind and shows the direction that the wind is blowing from.
Usage Instructions: - Weathervanes are often shaped like animals, arrows, or other figures, and they can be decorative as well as functional. - You can use the word "weathervane" when talking about weather or architecture, or when describing something that indicates a change.
Example: - "The old barn had a beautiful weathervane shaped like a rooster on top of its roof."
Advanced Usage: In a metaphorical sense, "weathervane" can refer to a person or thing that changes opinions or actions based on what is popular or trending, similar to how a weathervane changes direction with the wind.
Example: - "He’s a real weathervane in politics, always shifting his stance depending on public opinion."
Word Variants: - The word "weathervanes" is the plural form. - There are no common derivatives of the word, but you might see it used in phrases like "weathervane effect" to describe someone who changes their position frequently.
Different Meanings: - As noted, the primary meaning relates to weather and wind direction. In a figurative sense, it can describe someone who is indecisive or easily influenced.
Synonyms: - Wind vane - Weathercock (often used to describe a specific style of weathervane)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs using "weathervane," but you might hear phrases like "to be a weathervane" when talking about someone who shifts their opinions frequently.