"vanity" Definition

Definitions for the word "vanity" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
The quality or state of being vain; want of substance to satisfy desire; emptiness; unsubstantialness; unrealness; falsity.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
An inflation of mind upon slight grounds; empty pride inspired by an overweening conceit of one's personal attainments or decorations; an excessive desire for notice or approval; pride; ostentation; conceit.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
That which is vain; anything empty, visionary, unreal, or unsubstantial; fruitless desire or effort; trifling labor productive of no good; empty pleasure; vain pursuit; idle show; unsubstantial enjoyment.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
One of the established characters in the old moralities and puppet shows. See Morality, n., 5.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
(pl. -ies) 1 conceit about one''s appearance or attainments. 2 futility, unsubstantiality, unreal thing (the vanity of human achievement). 3 ostentatious display. [latin: related to *vain]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "vanity" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "vanity" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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