ˌaˌfekˈtāshən also -_fik-, -_fēk- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle French & Latin; Middle French affectation, from Latin affectation-, affectatio act of striving, conceit, from affectatus (past participle of affectare to aim) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at affect
1. obsolete : a striving after : aspiration toward
2. obsolete : fondness , affection
3. : the act of taking up or especially displaying a feeling, attitude, opinion, or desire not natural to oneself or not genuinely felt
his love of music was mere affectation
his affectation of righteous indignation fooled nobody
4. : manner of speech or behavior not natural to one's actual personality or capabilities : artificiality of behavior especially in display of feelings
was there nothing in beautiful manners but foppery, prudery, starch, and affectation , with false pride overtopping all? — Van Wyck Brooks