Fain

/feɪn/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Pleased; glad.

He was fain to share his good fortune with his friends.

adverb

Willingly; gladly.

I would fain accompany you on your journey.

Eagerly; gladly.

She would fain accept the award if invited.

As if; as though.

He walked fain into the room, as if he owned the place.

Middle English: from Old English 'fægen', meaning 'glad' or 'rejoice'.

fain would I

I would gladly or willingly.

fain to

Willing to do; inclined to.

fain-hearted

Eager or willing to do something.

fainness

The quality of being willing or glad.

To be eager or enthusiastic about something.

I’m fain to try that new restaurant!

Expressing a willingness with humor.

Oh, I fain accept that challenge!