Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Faint \Faint\ (f[=a]nt), a. [Compar. {Fainter} (-[~e]r); superl.
   {Faintest}.] [OE. feint, faint, false, faint, F. feint, p. p.
   of feindre to feign, suppose, hesitate. See {Feign}, and cf.
   {Feint}.]
   1. Lacking strength; weak; languid; inclined to swoon; as,
      faint with fatigue, hunger, or thirst.

   2. Wanting in courage, spirit, or energy; timorous; cowardly;
      dejected; depressed; as, ``Faint heart ne'er won fair
      lady.'' --Old Proverb.

   3. Lacking distinctness; hardly perceptible; striking the
      senses feebly; not bright, or loud, or sharp, or forcible;
      weak; as, a faint color, or sound.

   4. Performed, done, or acted, in a weak or feeble manner; not
      exhibiting vigor, strength, or energy; slight; as, faint
      efforts; faint resistance.

            The faint prosecution of the war.     --Sir J.
                                                  Davies.