The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

affectation

IPA

Dictionary definition of affectation

A behavior or mannerism that is intentionally adopted in order to impress or influence others.
"He adopted an affectation of a British accent to seem more sophisticated."

Detailed meaning of affectation

It is often used to describe behavior that is not genuine or sincere, but is instead a deliberate and artificial display. Affectation can take many forms, such as speaking in a certain way, dressing in a particular style, or using certain words or phrases. It is often used to create a certain impression or to gain social status or prestige. People who are perceived as having affectation are seen as being insincere, pretentious, and trying too hard to impress others. It is the act of putting on a false appearance to impress or influence others and the behavior or mannerism that is not natural but artificially assumed.

Example sentences containing affectation

1. His constant use of big words is just an affectation.
2. Her affected accent was an obvious affectation.
3. Don't mistake his politeness for affectation.
4. His extravagant attire is a clear affectation.
5. Her modesty is genuine, not an affectation.
6. His love for luxury cars is an affectation.

History and etymology of affectation

The noun 'affectation' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'affectatio,' which is formed from 'afficere,' meaning 'to do to' or 'to act upon.' In its original Latin sense, 'affectatio' conveyed the idea of intentional behavior or actions. Over time, it evolved to describe a mannerism or behavior that is intentionally adopted, often insincerely, in order to impress or influence others. 'Affectation' in English refers to the act of putting on a false or artificial display of behavior, speech, or style with the aim of appearing more refined, sophisticated, or socially desirable. Its etymology underscores the idea of a calculated or affected display, emphasizing the intentional nature of behaviors adopted for show or influence.

Quiz: Find the meaning of affectation

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Further usage examples of affectation

1. She saw through his pretentious affectation.
2. His humility was devoid of any affectation.
3. The elaborate gestures were a mere affectation.
4. She detested his insincere affectation of charm.
5. The faux British accent was a cringe-worthy affectation.
6. His collection of rare books was not just an affectation.
7. Their pretentious affectations made them unpopular.
8. The exaggerated laughter seemed like an affectation.
9. His feigned interest in art was an affectation.
10. She found his constant name-dropping to be an affectation.
11. His casual indifference was just an affectation.
12. The exaggerated cough was a theatrical affectation.
13. He adopted the affectation of a cigar-smoking tycoon.
14. Her attempts at sophistication were an affectation.
15. His affectation of intellectualism was transparent and off-putting.
16. The politician's affectation of empathy failed to convince the public.
17. Her affectation of wealth was evident in her designer clothing and jewelry.
18. The artist's use of bold colors and exaggerated strokes was an affectation.
19. The writer's use of archaic language seemed like an affectation to some readers.
20. His affectation of nonchalance belied his true feelings of anxiety.
21. She wore her sunglasses indoors as an affectation of celebrity status.
22. The comedian's use of an exaggerated Southern accent was an affectation for comedic effect.
23. Her affectation of being a wine connoisseur was exposed when she couldn't distinguish between two cheap bottles.
24. His affectation of being a rebel was undermined by his privileged upbringing.