·noun The front of an army. [Obs.] ·see Van.
·noun A person dispatched before another person or company, to give notice of his or their approach....
Webster's Dictionary of the English Language
·noun The van or advanced body of an army. ·see <<Vanguard>>. ...
In fortification, an advanced ditch without the counterscarp, and stretching along the foot of the g...
The Sailor's Word-Book