adverb
- without success; unsuccessfully
- in a conceited or excessively proud manner
Examples
- She searched vainly for her lost keys in the dark.
- The rescue team worked vainly to reach the trapped miners.
- He vainly attempted to fix the broken computer.
- The actor vainly admired himself in every mirror he passed.
- She vainly boasted about her expensive clothes.
- They vainly tried to convince him to change his mind.
- He vainly hoped for a promotion despite poor performance.