fain
5 synonyms and 0 antonyms for fain, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Archaic or literary: glad or willing, especially to do something for lack of a better choice.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Etymology
From Old English fægen, "glad, joyful," a word going back to a Proto-Germanic root meaning "glad."
Full origin of fain →Frequently asked questions
What does “fain” mean?
The word “fain” means archaic or literary: glad or willing, especially to do something for lack of a better choice. In plain terms, an old-fashioned word meaning "gladly" or "willing," now mostly seen in older literature.
How do you pronounce “fain”?
“Fain” is pronounced fayn (/feɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “fain” in a sentence?
Here is “fain” used in a sentence: “She was fain to accept the offer, having no better one.”
What part of speech is “fain”?
Depending on how it is used, “fain” can be an adjective and an adverb.
Where does the word “fain” come from?
The word “fain” comes from Old English. From Old English fægen, "glad, joyful," a word going back to a Proto-Germanic root meaning "glad.".
How many meanings does “fain” have?
“Fain” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: archaic or literary: glad or willing, especially to do something for lack of a better choice.