Affectation

/ˌafɛkˈteɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A deliberate pretense or exaggerated display of behavior or emotion.

Her affectation of sophistication was evident in the way she spoke and dressed.

A habitual or artificial way of speaking or behaving.

The actor's affectation of a British accent felt forced and unnatural.

An attitude or behavior that is artificial and intended to impress others.

His affectation for fine wines was more about impressing his friends than genuine appreciation.

An effort to appear distinct or unique, often perceived as insincere.

The artist's affectation of being an outsider was questioned by many critics.

Late Middle English, from Latin 'affectatio', meaning 'an endeavor, affection'.

putting on airs

To behave as if one is more important than one is.

to affect an interest

To pretend to have an interest in something.

affect

To influence or make a change.

pretense

An attempt to make something that is not the case appear true.

Fake it till you make it

She used a lot of affectation to fake it till she made it in the fashion world.

Try-hard

He’s such a try-hard with all his new affectations.