Fans

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /fænz/

Definitions

1. Devices that create airflow for cooling or ventilation ; people who show strong admiration or excitement for a person, team, or activity
2. Machines designed to circulate air and provide cooling ; individuals who actively follow and support a favorite entertainer, athlete, or cause
3. Apparatuses that blow air to cool or refresh ; persons devoted to cheering and promoting a particular group or interest

Etymology: "Fans" is the plural of the noun for a device that moves air to cool a room or a person. The noun is related to Latin "ventus", "wind", and to Old English "windwian", "to winnow", which describes separating grain from chaff by blowing air through it. The cooling device is a much later extension of that old sense of stirring up air. Separately, the sporting meaning, an enthusiastic follower of a team or performer, first appeared in American baseball slang. It may have been influenced by "fancy", a word for devotees of sports or hobbies.

Synonyms: enthusiasts, supporters, admirers, followers, buffs

Antonyms: detractors, opposers, critics, non-supporters, haters