\Car"a*van\ (k[a^]r"[.a]*v[a^]n or k[a^]r*[.a]*v[a^]n";
277), n. [F. caravane (cf. Sp. caravana), fr. Per. karw[=a]n
a caravan (in sense 1). Cf. {Van} a wagon.]
1. A company of travelers, pilgrims, or merchants, organized
   and equipped for a long journey, or marching or traveling
   together, esp. through deserts and countries infested by
   robbers or hostile tribes, as in Asia or Africa.
2. A large, covered wagon, or a train of such wagons, for
   conveying wild beasts, etc., for exhibition; an itinerant
   show, as of wild beasts.
3. A covered vehicle for carrying passengers or for moving
   furniture, etc.; -- sometimes shorted into van.