Synonyms of van

van

noun

1

as in vanguard

the innovators of new concepts, styles, and techniques especially in the arts

an artist who was in the van of abstract expressionism

Synonyms & Similar Words

• vanguard
• underground
• pioneer
• cutting edge
• avant-garde
• precursor
• forerunner
• trailblazer
• avant-gardist

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• establishment
• old guard

2

as in forefront

the leading or most important part of a movement

a company that is considered by some to be in the van of the latest technology for renewable energy

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forefront
• leading edge
• front line
• cutting edge
• vanguard
• spearhead

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of van

At the same time, chained up in the back of a van, an uncharacteristic fatalism has overtaken Reacher. — Chris Klimek, Vulture, 2 Sep. 2026

Suddenly, a man with an aquamarine shirt walks up to the side of the van. — Sonjirose Chin, Rolling Stone, 2 Sep. 2026

After testing multiple new hatchbacks, sedans, minivans, cargo vans, family SUVs and more, here are my top 10 best new vehicles of 2026 so far based on my driving impressions, rankings and overall value propositions. — Charles Singh, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026

Six others suffered minor injuries, including the driver and student in the school van. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 31 Aug. 2026