adjective
vain
VAYN/veɪn/
Too proud of one's appearance or achievements.
My vain brother admires his reflection in every mirror he passes.
Etymology
“Empty” developed figurative senses such as “worthless” and “fruitless.” Applied to people, the word came to describe pride in petty things or trifling achievements, connecting emptiness with an exaggerated sense of personal worth.
In context
it is rather a silly Prejudice to think a man vain who Parts his hair in the center he is less blamable than one who is too lazy to part it at all
More examples
- She is vain about her awards and mentions them constantly.
- He grows vainer with every compliment about his looks.
- Even the vainest actor needs honest feedback.
Forms
vain · vainer · vainest
vanity noun — Excessive pride in one's appearance or achievements.
Similar words
- conceited
- Emphasizes an exaggerated opinion of one's abilities or importance.
- arrogant
- Emphasizes acting superior to others, often with disrespect.