Background for fanning

fanning

/ˈfænɪŋ/

Illustration fanning - Image 1

verb

To blow air on (something) by means of a fan (hand-held, mechanical or electrical) or otherwise.

Examples :

"We enjoyed standing at the edge of the cliff, being fanned by the wind."

utensil technology weather machine action device

Illustration fanning - Image 1

verb

To slap (a behind, especially).

Examples :

"The teacher warned the students that fanning a classmate's behind was unacceptable and would result in detention. "

body action sex human

Illustration fanning - Image 1

Illustration fanning - Image 2

verb

(usually to fan out) To move or spread in multiple directions from one point, in the shape of a hand-held fan.

Examples :

"The teacher noticed the students were fanning out across the playground during recess, spreading in different directions to play. "

direction action

Illustration fanning - Image 1

verb

To dispel by waving a hand-held fan.

Examples :

"I attempted to fan the disagreeable odour out of the room."

Illustration fanning - Image 1

verb

To perform a maneuver that involves flicking the top rear of an old-style gun.

Examples :

"The cowboy, needing to fire quickly, was fanning his revolver, making a rapid series of shots. "

weapon military action technical

Illustration fanning - Image 1

verb

(metaphoric) To invigorate, like flames when fanned.

Examples :

"The coach was fanning their enthusiasm by praising their hard work. "

energy action process

Illustration fanning - Image 1

verb

To winnow grain.

Examples :

"The farmer was fanning the harvested rice to separate the grains from the chaff. "

agriculture utensil food process

Illustration fanning - Image 1

Illustration fanning - Image 2

noun

The act by which something is fanned.

Examples :

"The fanning of the papers by the air conditioner scattered them across the desk. "

Illustration fanning - Image 1

noun

A very small fragment of tea leaf.

Examples :

"The tea strainer caught most of the tea leaves, but a little fanning still escaped into my cup. "