Fain
[feyn]
Part of speech: adjective
Origin: Old English, pre-12th century
1.
Pleased or willing under the circumstances.
2.
Compelled by the circumstances; obliged.
Examples of Fain in a sentence
"I was fain to continue with the online book club."
"He was fain to answer the questions or risk a failing grade."
About Fain
If doing something wasn't your idea, but you're happy to do it, the adjective for that is "fain." There's usually some kind of extenuating circumstances surrounding the activity, but you'll get the job done any way.
Did you Know?
Fain is an Old English word that doesn't have a lot of modern context, but it is related to the verb "fawn." They both come from the Germanic word "fægen," meaing to be happy or pleased. Today "fawn" is obsequious adoration, while fain describes a willingness or obligation.
