Affectedly: meaning, definitions and examples
ðŸŽ
affectedly
[ əˈfɛktɪdli ]
manner of speaking
Affectedly is used to describe a way of speaking or behaving that is exaggerated or artificial, often in an attempt to draw attention or elicit a certain response. This mannerism may come off as pretentious or showy, as the individual puts on a facade that does not reflect their true self. It is commonly used in discussions about acting, communication styles, and social interactions.
Synonyms
artificially, ostentatiously, pretentiously, showily.
Examples of usage
- She laughed affectedly, trying to impress her guests.
- He spoke affectedly, as if reading from a script.
- The artist's affectedly dramatic gestures captivated the audience.
Etymology
The term 'affectedly' originates from the word 'affected', which comes from the Latin 'affectus', meaning 'influenced' or 'impacted'. Over time, 'affected' evolved in English to describe behavior that is adopted for a particular effect. The adverbial form 'affectedly' emerged to modify how actions or speech are performed, suggesting a departure from authentic expression towards an exaggerated or contrived display. The usage in literary contexts often highlights characters who adopt certain behaviors or manners in a way that seems insincere or exaggerated, reflecting social or class pretensions prevalent in different historical eras.