What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vane
Example
The vane on top of the barn showed that the wind was coming from the north. [vane: noun]
Example
The weather vane spun around as the wind changed direction. [vane: noun]
anemometer
Example
The anemometer recorded wind speeds of up to 50 miles per hour during the storm. [anemometer: noun]
Example
The meteorologist used an anemometer to collect data on the wind patterns in the area. [anemometer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Anemometer is more commonly used than vane in scientific and practical contexts, while vane is more commonly used in decorative contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vane and anemometer?
Anemometer is a more formal term than vane, which is often used in casual or decorative contexts.