noun
vanity
The lack of real value or purpose, or something lacking these.
The poem reflects on the vanity of earthly ambition.
Etymology
The Latin noun means emptiness or lack of substance. This sense preserves the idea that something has no lasting value or useful purpose.
More examples
- She came to recognize the vanity of seeking universal approval.
- The sermon described wealth and fame as vanities.
- His final letter questioned the vanity of the struggle.
Forms
vanity · vanities
Similar words
- futility
- Emphasizes inability to achieve a useful result.
- emptiness
- Can suggest a lack of emotional or spiritual substance.