How Do You Spell VANITY?

Pronunciation: [vˈanɪti] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "vanity" can be a bit tricky for some, as there are several letters that do not sound as they are spelled. Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the pronunciation of "vanity" is /ˈvæn.ə.ti/. The "v" is pronounced with a voiced labiodental fricative sound, the "a" is pronounced as a short vowel sound, the "n" is a nasal consonant, the "i" is pronounced with the vowel sound of "ee," the "t" is a voiceless dental plosive, and the final "y" is pronounced as the vowel sound in "why."

VANITY Meaning and Definition

  1. Vanity, a noun of Latin origin, can be defined as the excessive pride or admiration of one's own appearance, achievements, abilities, or qualities. It refers to a strong desire to be noticed, praised, and approved by others, often driven by a subjective perception of oneself as superior or more important than others. Vanity is commonly associated with superficiality, as it emphasizes external appearances rather than focusing on intrinsic values or characteristics.

    In a broader sense, vanity can also refer to an excessive concern with one's social status, popularity, possessions, or public image. It often manifests as a preoccupation with material possessions, seeking attention or flattery, and seeking validation through others' opinions. Vanity can lead individuals to engage in self-centered actions, such as self-promotion, exaggeration of achievements, and a constant need for perfection or validation.

    The term "vanity" is frequently used to describe someone who is overly self-absorbed, narcissistic, or conceited. It denotes behavior that prioritizes the self over others and can encompass traits like arrogance, haughtiness, or boastfulness. Vanity is often perceived as a negative characteristic, as it can hinder genuine connections with others and prevent self-growth or introspection. It is important to differentiate healthy self-confidence from excessive vanity, as true self-assuredness lies in a balanced and realistic perception of one's worth and abilities.

  2. • Empty pride inspired by an overweening opinion of one's own importance; anything empty, visionary, or unsubstantial; vain pursuit; idle show.
    • See vain.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for VANITY *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for VANITY

Etymology of VANITY

The word "vanity" originated from the Latin word "vanitas", which means emptiness, worthlessness, or futility. It was derived from the Latin word "vanus", meaning empty or void. Over time, the word "vanitas" took on the additional sense of a vain or excessive belief in one's own importance, leading to the word "vanity" as we know it today.

Similar spelling words for VANITY

Plural form of VANITY is VANITIES

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