Vanity

/ˈvæn.ɪ.ti/

Meaning & Definition

noun
Excessive pride in or admiration of one's own appearance or achievements.
Her vanity was evident as she spent hours in front of the mirror, perfecting her makeup.
The quality of being worthless or futile.
He realized that his pursuit of wealth was rooted in vanity, ultimately leading nowhere meaningful.
A dressing table, especially one with a mirror and drawers for cosmetics.
She set her new cosmetics on the vanity in her bedroom, ready for her morning routine.

Etymology

From Latin 'vanitas', meaning 'emptiness, futility'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

vanity fair:
A place or scene of superficiality or ostentatious behavior.
vanity project:
A project undertaken primarily for the satisfaction of the person leading it rather than for practical reasons.
in vain:
Without success or a result; futile.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Being too focused on appearances.
Don't be so vain, nobody cares about your new haircut.
Showing off or being ostentatious.
His vanity was off the charts at the party with that flashy suit.