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Definition of vainly : In a vain manner; in vain.

Synonyms:

purposelessly, bootlessly, unnecessarily, to no avail, to no purpose, unprofitably, hopelessly, needlessly, in vain

condescendingly, cockily, haughtily, egoistically, high-handedly, high-and-mightily, proudly, huffily, conceitedly, confidently, narcissistically, smugly, assuredly, grandly, ostentatiously

futilely, ineffectually, fruitlessly, abortively, pointlessly, uselessly, unsuccessfully

self-applaudingly, self-admiringly, self-centeredly, self-flatteringly, superficially, boastfully

greedily, egotistically, selfishly, hoggishly

Usage examples:

• O wretched son of my lost angel, whom I so vainly sought to save by the sacrifice of all my claims to the respect of men, for what purpose do you seek me? - "What Will He Do With It, Book 10.", Edward Bulwer-Lytton.
• My distress, which I vainly endeavoured to command, discovered the exact situation of my heart, and my father was affected. - "A Sicilian Romance", Ann Radcliffe.
• " They're upstairs," said Bumps, tears filling her blue eyes, which she vainly struggled to keep back. - "Jill's Red Bag", Amy Le Feuvre.