in vain adverb 2adjective 1forms 2 adverb2 •Without success or a result; ending in failure.[…]that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain[…] — 1863 •In a disrespectful manner, without honoring the proper meaning; insincerely or without proper respect.Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vaine:[…] — 1611 adjective1 •Unsuccessful, failed.Their efforts were in vain and he succumbed to his injuries. formsmore in vain · most in vain
