Meaning of the word fain in English

What does fain mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

fain

US /feɪn/
UK /feɪn/

Adjective

pleased or willing under the circumstances (archaic or literary)

Example:
I would be fain to help you, if I could.
He was fain to accept the offer.

Adverb

gladly; willingly (archaic or literary)

Example:
He would fain have gone with them.
I would fain know the truth.