Puzzle #427 · August 2, 2026
vanity fair
Featured
Every day one two-word expression or compound word used in American English.
“Vanity fair” is a literary term for a place or scene characterized by ostentation, frivolity, and a preoccupation with idle pleasures or worldly goods. The phrase often describes a lifestyle centered on materialism, status, and shallow entertainment. - Webster
The term originated in John Bunyan's Christian allegory, The Pilgrim's Progress. In the story, “Vanity Fair” is a perpetual market set up in the town of Vanity, representing mankind's sinful and distracting attachment to worldly things. - Wikipedia
The term originated in John Bunyan's Christian allegory, The Pilgrim's Progress. In the story, “Vanity Fair” is a perpetual market set up in the town of Vanity, representing mankind's sinful and distracting attachment to worldly things. - Wikipedia
Puzzle Appearances
The expression vanity fair has appeared in 1 puzzle:
- Puzzle #427 on August 2, 2026
Rate of Appearance in English Language Print
Google's Ngram project shows how often a pair of words has appeared in print every year since the 1800's.
Data from Google Books Ngram Viewer. Licensed under CC BY 3.0.
Explore More Expressions
Everyday the Wordcels Puzzle has a featured expression showing meaning, history and connection to culture. Explore them all.
The Wordcels Puzzle
Think you've mastered Americanisms? The two-word phrases, compound words and idiomatic expressions of American English? Each day the Wordcels Puzzle provides 15 words that must be arranged to form 16 expressions. Give it a try.
