vain, vanity

Definition:

The term "vain" describes something that is useless or has no purpose. Vain things are empty and worthless.

The term "vanity" refers to worthlessness or emptiness. It can also refer to pride or arrogance.
In the Old Testament, idols are described as vain things that cannot deliver or save. They are worthless and have no use or purpose.
If something was done "in vain," it means that there was no good result from it. The effort or action did not accomplish anything.
To "believe in vain" means to believe in something that is not true and that gives false hope.

Depending on the context, the term "vain" could be translated as "empty" or "useless" or "hopeless" or "worthless" or "meaningless."
The phrase "in vain" could be translated as "without result" or "with no result" or "for no reason" or "with no purpose."
The term "vanity" could be translated as "pride" or "nothing worthwhile" or "hopelessness."

(See also: idol, worthy)