Affixed Meaning: Definition and Examples

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affixed

[Ι™ΛˆfΙͺkst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

attachment to

Affixed means to attach or stick something to another object. It often refers to making something secure or permanent, commonly used in contexts where labels, stamps, or items are attached to a surface.

Synonyms

attached, fastened, secured.

Examples of usage

  • She affixed the stamp to the envelope.
  • The label was affixed to the product for identification.
  • He affixed the poster to the wall with tape.
Context #2 | Verb

in legal terms

In legal documents, affixed is used to denote the application of a signature or seal, indicating formal acceptance or validation of a contract or agreement.

Synonyms

endorsed, sealed, signed.

Examples of usage

  • The contract was duly signed and affixed with a company seal.
  • The official documents were affixed with the authorized signature.
  • They affixed their signatures to the agreement.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many poems, authors use the concept of being 'affixed' to represent emotional connections or attachments.
  • Metaphorically, characters may feel metaphorically affixed to relationships or places, vis-Γ -vis themes of belonging.
  • Affixed can also indicate something that is permanently set in a specific context within storytelling.

Science

  • In biology, the term relates to how organisms can be affixed to their environments or certain substrates.
  • In construction and engineering, affixing is crucial for ensuring buildings and products are stable and safe.
  • The concept also applies in technology, such as affixing elements in an electronic circuit.

Art

  • In art, artists may affix materials together in mixed media, creating textured layers in their works.
  • The affixed nature of art installations can challenge viewers’ perceptions of permanence and change.
  • Renowned artists have experimented with affixing unconventional objects in sculptures, creating unique expressions and commentary.

Psychology

  • The feeling of being affixed can relate to how humans attach to objects, places, or even ideas throughout life.
  • Psychological studies often discuss how early attachments influence interpersonal relationships, hinting at the concept of being affixed emotionally.
  • People may feel affixed to certain memories or experiences, showcasing how attachment shapes our identity.

Origin of 'affixed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'affingere,' meaning to attach or fasten.
  • It has evolved in usage from Latin roots, becoming commonly used in English during the late Middle Ages.
  • The prefix 'af-' indicates direction towards or addition, while 'fix' relates to fixing or securing something.

The term 'affixed' originates from the Latin word 'afficere,' which means 'to do something to' or 'to attach.' This Latin term evolved through Old French before entering Middle English, originally appearing in texts around the late 14th century. The prefix 'ad-' (meaning 'to') combined with 'figere' (meaning 'to fasten or fix') captures the essence of attachment or connection. Over centuries, 'affixed' has been utilized in legal, literary, and everyday contexts, evolving in nuance but retaining its core meaning of attaching firmly and securely.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,154, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.