Definition of the word vanity

The word "vanity" originates from the Middle English word "vanyte," which in turn comes from the Old French word "vanite" meaning "emptiness" or "vainness." This Old French word has its roots in the Latin word "vanitas," meaning "vanity" or "emptiness." After the Norman Conquest in 1066, French became the language of the upper classes in England, and the French word "vanite" began to replace the Anglo-Saxon word "hottronc" which was in use at the time. Over time, the spelling of the word evolved to "vanyté" in Middle English and eventually "vanity" in Modern English. In the 16th century, the word began to take on a more religious connotation, particularly in Protestantism, as it was associated with pride and self-importance, which are considered sinful in many religious traditions. Today, "vanity" continues to be used in a variety of contexts, from personal self-perception to societal values and opinions that are deemed insignificant or misguided.