Vainest: meaning, definitions and examples
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vainest
[veɪnɪst ]
Definition
self-obsessed
The term 'vainest' is the superlative form of 'vain', which describes someone who has an excessively high opinion of their own appearance, abilities, or worth. Individuals labeled as vain often focus on their image and seek admiration from others. Being vain can manifest in selfishness, superficiality, and an obsession with one's looks. People who are the vainest are often seen as lacking depth and may drive others away due to their narcissistic tendencies.
Synonyms
conceited, narcissistic, self-centered.
Examples of usage
- She is the vainest person I know, always checking her reflection.
- His vainest moments come during his Instagram photo shoots.
- They laughed at his vainest attempts to impress the crowd.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'vain' originates from the Latin 'vanus', meaning empty or void, which reflects the emptiness of excessive pride.
- In English, 'vanity' has been used since the 14th century, connecting personal pride to superficial qualities.
- The suffix '-est' is a superlative form in English, used to indicate the highest degree, hence 'vainest' means most vain.
Psychology
- People who are described as the vainest may have deep-seated insecurities, using outward appearance as a shield.
- Studies in narcissism often showcase how excessive vanity can stem from low self-esteem rather than high self-worth.
- Vain individuals might not recognize how their behavior impacts relationships, leading to potential conflicts with others.
Literature
- In Shakespeare’s 'Hamlet', the character Polonius warns against being vain, reflecting on the consequences of pride.
- Many literary works use characters portraying vanity to highlight the folly of disregarding deeper values like wisdom and kindness.
- In 'The Picture of Dorian Gray', the main character embodies vanity, showing its destructiveness as he becomes lost in his looks.
Pop Culture
- Modern social media platforms often showcase aspects of vanity, where individuals curate images to present ideal versions of themselves.
- Reality television has popularized vanity, celebrating looks and lifestyle over substance, reflecting cultural values.
- Music often addresses vanity; songs like 'You’re So Vain' by Carly Simon critique those obsessed with their image.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Plato examined vanity as a distraction from the pursuit of true knowledge and virtue.
- Roman thinker Seneca described vanity as a shallow pursuit, emphasizing inner worth over physical appearance.
- Stoics warned against vanity, promoting self-control and focusing on what truly matters in life—personal integrity and wisdom.
Translations
Translations of the word "vainest" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mais vaidoso
🇮🇳 अधिक अभिमानी
🇩🇪 eitelster
🇮🇩 paling sombong
🇺🇦 найбільш марнославний
🇵🇱 najbardziej próżny
🇯🇵 最も虚栄心の強い
🇫🇷 le plus vaniteux
🇪🇸 el más vanidoso
🇹🇷 en vain
🇰🇷 가장 허영심이 많은
🇸🇦 الأكثر غرورًا
🇨🇿 nejvíce marnivý
🇸🇰 najviac márny
🇨🇳 最虚荣的
🇸🇮 najbolj prazno
🇮🇸 mest hrokafull
🇰🇿 ең масатшыл
🇬🇪 ყველაზე ვერცხლის
🇦🇿 ən qürurlu
🇲🇽 el más vanidoso