Definition & Meaning of "weathervane"

What is a "weathervane"?

A weathervane is a device used to show the direction of the wind. It is typically mounted on a roof or high point of a building and spins freely in the wind. Weathervanes are often made of metal and shaped in various designs, such as arrows, animals, or other figures. The design allows one side to catch the wind, causing the weathervane to point in the direction from which the wind is blowing. Weathervanes are both functional, helping people determine wind direction, and decorative, adding charm to buildings.