vainly

vain-ly · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    In a way that produces no result; without success.

  2. 2.

    In a conceited or self-admiring manner.

  3. 3.

    Without any real purpose or likelihood of success.

Related words

Antonyms: effectively, fruitfully, successfully
See also: vain, vanity
Synonyms: fruitlessly, futilely, unsuccessfully, uselessly

Etymology

From Latin vanus (empty, worthless), with English adverbial suffix -ly.