The meaning of FAIN is willing. How to use fain in a sentence.

She would fain have been happy, and left untried no means of regaining the lost joy of her heart.

FAIN definition: gladly; willingly. See examples of fain used in a sentence.

Dec 16, 2025 · Having pledged herself to remain with her aunt to the end, Christbel was fain to make the best of her life at Mount Royal, and in order to do this she must needs keep on good terms with her …

Definition of fain adverb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Definition of 'fain' fain in British English (feɪn ) adverb 1. (usually with would) archaic

Happily; gladly: "I would fain improve every opportunity to wonder and worship, as a sunflower welcomes the light" (Henry David Thoreau).

Glad, in a relative sense; content or willing to accept an alternative to something better but unattainable: followed by an infinitive: as, he was fain to run away.

Fain definition: Happily; gladly.

There are eight meanings listed in OED's entry for the word fain, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.