affection

/əˈfekʃən/
nounIntermediate
informal

A gentle feeling of fondness or tenderness, often expressed through actions or words.

His affection for his dog was evident in the way he cared for it.

His fondness for his dog was clear in how he took care of it.

She expressed her affection through small gestures, like leaving notes.

She showed her tenderness by leaving little notes.

💡

Affection is often shown through physical touch, kind words, or thoughtful actions.

Collocations

show affectionto express fondnessfeel affectionto experience warm feelingsdeep affectionstrong, heartfelt fondness

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

affectionateadjective
showing or feeling affection
affectionatelyadverb
in a way that shows affection

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

Affection is often used to describe feelings between friends, family, or pets, not necessarily romantic love.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While affection is positive, overusing it in formal contexts may sound overly sentimental.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'affeccioun,' from Old French 'afeccion,' from Latin 'affectio,' meaning 'inclination, passion, love.'

📝Usage Notes

Affection is often used to describe a gentle, warm feeling, distinct from romantic love. It can be platonic or familial.

Word Breakdown

affect
to influence or act upon
root
+
-ion
the state or condition of
suffix
English Dictionary