in vain Definition

vain
adj

1. Having too much pride in one's appearance, achievements or possessions; conceited.

Thesaurus: egotistical, egocentric, narcissistic, arrogant, conceited, self-important, full of oneself, haughty, proud; Antonym: modest, self-effacing.
2. Having no useful effect or result; futile.

Idiom: in vain

Without success; fruitlessly.

Idiom: take someone's name in vain

To refer to them in a disrespectful way, especially in anger or surprise.

Derivative: vainly
adverb

Derivative: vainness
noun

See also vanity.

Etymology: 13c: from French, from Latin vanus empty.