vain vain /ˈveɪn/

adjective

1. () Characteristic of false pride; having an exaggerated sense of self-importance  ( conceited , egotistic , egotistical , self-conceited , swollen , swollen-headed , vain , puffed-up [Informal] , swellheaded [Informal, N. American] )
   characteristic of false pride; having an exaggerated sense of self-importance
    A conceited fool
   a conceited fool
    An attitude of self-conceited arrogance
   an attitude of self-conceited arrogance
    An egotistical disregard of others
   an egotistical disregard of others
    So swollen by victory that he was unfit for normal duty
   so swollen by victory that he was unfit for normal duty
    Growing ever more swollen-headed and arbitrary
   growing ever more swollen-headed and arbitrary
    Vain about her clothes
   vain about her clothes
   
2. () Unproductive of success  ( bootless , sleeveless , fruitless , futile , vain )
   unproductive of success
    A fruitless search
   a fruitless search
    Futile years after her artistic peak
   futile years after her artistic peak
    A sleeveless errand
   a sleeveless errand
    A vain attempt
   a vain attempt