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Vain

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Having an excessively high opinion of one’s appearance, abilities, or worth.
2. Producing no result or effect; futile.
3. Proud or conceited, especially regarding superficial attributes.
4. In a vain manner, meaning without success or purpose.

History and Origin

The word “vain” comes from the Old French vain and the Latin vanus, meaning “empty” or “futile.” It has been in use since the 14th century, originally referring to something that was empty, futile, or without value. Over time, it became associated with excessive pride or self-admiration. The dual meanings of “vain” — one relating to pride and the other to futility — have both remained in use through the centuries.

Detailed Explanation

“Vain” is an adjective that can describe both a person’s attitude and the effectiveness of an action or effort. When referring to a person, it typically means someone who is overly proud of their appearance, abilities, or achievements, often to the point of arrogance. In another context, when describing actions or efforts, it refers to attempts that are futile or without meaningful result. For example, a “vain effort” might be one that ultimately leads to no significant outcome, regardless of the effort put into it. The word suggests a sense of emptiness, whether it’s in the context of an individual’s self-image or an endeavor.

Example Sentences

1. She was so vain that she spent hours in front of the mirror admiring herself.
2. His vain attempt to win the race ended when he tripped on the final lap.
3. The king’s vain pride in his wealth made him unpopular among his subjects.
4. They realized that their efforts to fix the old car were in vain.
5. His vain attitude made him difficult to work with in the team.
6. The politician’s vain promises failed to win the votes he needed.
7. Her vain attempt to convince everyone of her innocence was unsuccessful.
8. The project ended in vain when the necessary resources were not provided.
9. The vain hope of winning the lottery distracted him from more realistic goals.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Conceited – Having an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance or abilities.
2. Arrogant – Displaying a sense of superiority and disregard for others.
3. Self-centered – Focused mainly on oneself and one’s own interests.
4. Futile – Pointless or incapable of producing a meaningful result.
5. Proud – Having a high opinion of one’s own qualities or achievements, often to excess.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Narcissistic – Excessively self-absorbed, often associated with vanity and admiration of oneself.
2. Egotistical – Focused on oneself and one’s own self-importance, similar to being vain.
3. Empty – Lacking real substance or value, similar to the meaning of vain when referring to actions.
4. Pompous – Displaying self-importance in a way that is often perceived as arrogant.
5. Hollow – Lacking real worth or sincerity, often used to describe vain attempts or gestures.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Boastful – Inclined to brag about one’s accomplishments or abilities, often related to vanity.
2. Self-important – Feeling that one’s presence or actions are more significant than they actually are.
3. Superficial – Concerned only with appearance or outward aspects, often linked to vanity.
4. Inconsiderate – Lacking regard for others, a trait often found in vain individuals.
5. Pretentious – Trying to impress others by pretending to have qualities or knowledge that one does not possess.

Antonyms

1. Humble
2. Modest
3. Unpretentious
4. Unassuming
5. Self-effacing