Assignation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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assignation
[หรฆsษชหneษชสษn ]
Definition
formal meeting
Assignation is a term that often refers to a secret meeting or appointment, typically of a romantic or illicit nature. This word can also denote an assignment or allocation of roles or responsibilities in various contexts. In literature, assignations often carry a sense of intrigue or clandestine dealings between characters. The term itself evokes a sense of planning and intention behind the gathering.
Synonyms
appointment, assignment, engagement, meeting.
Examples of usage
- Their assignation in the quiet cafรฉ was filled with unspoken tension.
- The assignation of roles in the project was clearly defined.
- She wrote a note to confirm their assignation under the old oak tree.
- He was reluctant to attend the assignation, fearing it would be too public.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Assignation often appears in classic literature as a plot device, representing hidden love or intrigue.
- Famous authors like Victor Hugo and George Bernard Shaw used assignation to develop complex romantic plots.
- Shakespeare's works also hint at assignations, where characters meet secretly to express love or conspire.
Pop Culture
- In films, assignations are frequently used in romance or thriller genres, suggesting tension and secrecy.
- Television shows utilize assignations to create drama, often between love interests or during clandestine meetings.
- Popular songs reference assignations to evoke themes of love, betrayal, and hidden romance.
Psychology
- Assignations can create feelings of excitement and anxiety, often tied to forbidden relationships.
- The secrecy involved may lead to complex emotional dynamics, including guilt and thrill.
- Psychological studies suggest that secretive meetings can enhance perceived intimacy between individuals.
Historical Context
- In earlier societies, assignations often held social significance, especially relating to courtship practices.
- Political assignations in history refer to critical meetings that led to significant decisions or betrayals.
- The notion of secret meetings for alliances or schemes has been documented throughout various cultures and epochs.
Origin of 'assignation'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'assignatio', meaning 'a assigning' or 'an allotment'.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally relating to the act of assigning.
- Over time, the meaning shifted to imply secret meetings or romantic liaisons.
The word 'assignation' comes from the Latin 'assignatio', which is derived from 'assignare', meaning to allocate or assign. The term entered the English language in the late 15th century, initially referring to the act of designating or assigning something. Over time, the connotation of assignation evolved to encompass secretive or private meetings, often with romantic or clandestine undertones. This shift in meaning reflects a broader societal fascination with discretion and intimacy. Today, 'assignation' is used in both formal and literary contexts, often embodying the intersection of duty and desire.