* Weather: The wind vane on the roof pointed directly west, indicating a strong breeze coming from that direction.
* Science: The vane of the turbine spun rapidly as the wind pushed against its blades.
* Architecture: The decorative vane atop the church spire was crafted in the shape of a cross.
* Figurative: Her hopes, once soaring high, seemed to have lost their vane, wavering in the face of uncertainty.
The word "vane" can refer to different things, so the context will determine its meaning.