as in willing
having a desire or inclination (as for a specified course of action)
during the Renaissance most men of science and the arts were fain to express their noblest thoughts in Latin, the lingua franca of the learned
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in rather
by choice or preference
"I would fain not marry that suitor, my lord," the princess pleaded
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fain
Adjective
-
The petition states that Nick Reiner still wants Jackson to represent him, and that Jackson is still willing to do so if funds can be obtained.—
Gene Maddaus,
Variety,
10 June 2026 -
In a declaration, Jackson said his firm remained willing to return if funding became available, including through alternative fee arrangements.—
Lauryn Overhultz,
FOXNews.com,
9 June 2026
Adverb
-
Phongam plays off Jittri’s steam-rolling ambition to electrifying results in a rather addictive Thai thriller series that throws a lot of story at ya.—
Randy Myers,
Mercury News,
11 June 2026
-
But rather than further ratchet up the stakes in the final minutes, the episode closes with Rosemary exhaustively — and rather hilariously — going over an extensive genealogical document for Tom and Patricia.—
David Canfield,
HollywoodReporter,
11 June 2026
Adjective
-
Following practice, a Panthers spokesperson clarified that the team expects McMillan to be ready for training camp in July.—
Charlotte Observer,
Charlotte Observer,
11 June 2026
-
While the Patriots could have caved to the pressure, Cash said the group was ready to adjust.—
Jack Murray,
Boston Herald,
11 June 2026
Adverb
-
Then there was Officer Niwa, who willingly fielded questions across from Moynihan Hall.—
Antonio Ferme,
Variety,
11 June 2026
-
Bell, who’d willingly chosen the juco route, was more interested in sincere investments in his development than instant money.—
Brooks Kubena,
New York Times,
8 June 2026
Adjective
-
Rinker, whose last few years have been filled with loss, is just glad to be home.—
Los Angeles Times,
Los Angeles Times,
29 May 2026
-
Andrew coach Dave DeHaan is certainly glad for that.—
Steve Millar,
Chicago Tribune,
29 May 2026
Adjective
-
The Union-Tribune found those in attendance at Petco Park were more inclined to keep the faith than throw in the towel.—
Kirk Kenney,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
7 June 2026
-
Research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York finds that companies are less inclined to hire young college graduates into roles that can be done remotely.—
Brittney Melton,
NPR,
3 June 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Fain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fain. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.
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