van
/væn/ UK /væn/ · US /væn/
A short a CVC word (æ) in the objects category. It belongs to the -an word family.
objectsHear van
Tap a sound to hear it on its own, or play the whole word below.
How to Say “van”
Blend the three sounds together slowly, then speed up: /v/ – /æ/ – /n/ → van.
Example Sentences with Van
- Drive the van.
- Delivery van.
- A white van parked outside.
- We put the boxes in the van.
- The van delivers the post.
How to Spell “van”
Children most often write this word as van, vna, vann. Those errors are useful — each one points to a specific sound the child has not yet connected to a letter.
- The "v" is voiced — buzz with the voice while touching the top teeth to the bottom lip.
- Short a /æ/ in the middle.
- Contrast "van" with "win" to practise v and w.
Phonics Tip for Van
English has a "w" and a "v" that children routinely swap. Practising "van", "vet" and "win" in one sitting fixes the confusion quickly.
Fun Facts About Van
The word "van" was borrowed into English in the early 20th century from the French "voiture", meaning a covered carriage, and it originally referred to a horse-drawn wagon.
More Words in the -an Family
Words that rhyme with van and end with the same sounds:
Related CVC Words
More words with the short a sound that have their own picture guide:
Other Word Families
Move between families:
Where to Practise Van
- All short a CVC words — 59 words
- The -an word family
- CVC flash cards — picture cards with audio
- CVC multiple choice quiz
- CVC sentences — read the word in context
- CVC worksheets