CategoryArchaic Word / Moral and Wisdom Term
Modern Equivalentempty; useless; worthless; futile; meaningless.
KJV Word TypeAdjective / noun
DefinitionEmpty, useless, fruitless, or without lasting value. In the KJV, “vain” and “vanity” can describe idolatry, empty words, futile labor, pride, false hope, or the passing nature of earthly life.
Key Verses"Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it." (Psalm 127:1); "Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity." (Ecclesiastes 1:2); "And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain." (1 Corinthians 15:14)
KJV Usage NoteOften means empty, futile, or worthless rather than only proud or self-admiring.
Common MisunderstandingIt does not only mean excessive concern with appearance; in KJV usage it often means emptiness, futility, worthlessness, or lack of lasting value.
EtymologyFrom Latin vanus, meaning empty or void.