Affectation

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˌæf.É›kˈteɪ.ʃən/
• Rhymes: -eɪʃən

Origin

First attested in 1548. From Latin affectātiōnem (possibly via French affectation), from affectō ("I feign").

Full definition of affectation

Noun

1. An attempt to assume or exhibit what is not natural or real; false display; artificial show.
• 1810 , Dr. Samuel Johnson , The Works of the English Poets Chapter Life of Gower , This poem is strongly tinctured with those pedantic affectations concerning the passion of love ...
2. An unusual mannerism.

Synonyms

• (unusual mannerism) eccentricity, mannerism

Related terms

• affect
• affectatious
• affecter
• affective
• affection
• affectionate