1. A group of travelers, especially in the desert, traveling together for safety and mutual support.
* This is the most common and traditional meaning of the word. Think of caravans of camels crossing the Sahara desert in ancient times.
2. A large, motorized vehicle used for camping and recreation.
* In modern English, "caravan" often refers to a type of trailer, typically towed by a car. It is a self-contained living space with a kitchen, sleeping areas, and often a bathroom. It's also sometimes called a "travel trailer" or "RV" (Recreational Vehicle).
3. A group of people who travel together for a particular purpose.
* This can include, for example, a group of musicians on tour, a team of athletes competing in a series of events, or a group of friends on a road trip.
4. A covered passageway or shopping area.
* This meaning is less common but sometimes used in British English. Think of the "covered market" in a city center.
To understand the meaning of "caravan" in a specific context, look at the surrounding words and phrases. For example, "a caravan of camels" clearly refers to the first definition, while "a caravan park" refers to the second definition.