Affectation – Definition & Meaning

Affectation is a term that is commonly used in the English language to describe a behavior or attitude that is not genuine or natural. It is a form of pretense or artificiality that is often used to impress others or to gain social status. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of affectation, its origin, and its use in different dictionaries.

Definitions

Affectation is defined as a behavior or attitude that is not natural or genuine, but is adopted for effect or to impress others. It is a form of pretense or artificiality that is often used to gain social status or to appear more cultured or sophisticated than one really is.

Origin

The word affectation comes from the Latin word “affectatio,” which means “a striving after.” It was first used in English in the 1540s to describe a desire or ambition to achieve something. Over time, the meaning of the word shifted to describe a behavior or attitude that is not natural or genuine.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The meaning of affectation can vary slightly depending on the dictionary. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a studied or artificial manner or behavior, especially one intended to impress others.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “speech or conduct not natural to oneself: artificiality.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “behaviour or speech that is not sincere or natural.”

Associations

Affectation is often associated with insincerity, pretension, and artificiality. It is seen as a negative trait because it involves pretending to be something that one is not. It is often used to impress others or to gain social status, but it is ultimately seen as shallow and unauthentic.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of affectation include pretense, artificiality, insincerity, posturing, and posing. These words all describe behaviors or attitudes that are not natural or genuine.

Antonyms

Antonyms of affectation include sincerity, authenticity, naturalness, and spontaneity. These words describe behaviors or attitudes that are genuine and not contrived.

The same root words

The word affectation comes from the Latin word “affectatio,” which means “a striving after.” Other words that come from this root include affect, affection, and affective. These words all relate to the idea of striving after or desiring something.

Example Sentences

1. Her affectation of a British accent was transparent to everyone in the room.
2. He adopted an affectation of sophistication to impress his colleagues.
3. The politician’s affectation of concern for the poor was seen as insincere by many.
4. She dropped her affectation of aloofness and became more approachable.
5. His affectation of nonchalance masked his nervousness.