affectation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a deliberate pretense or exaggerated display
    pose; mannerism; affectedness.

WordNet

Af`fec*ta"tion noun
Etymology
L. affectatio: cf. F. affectation.
Definitions
  1. An attempt to assume or exhibit what is not natural or real; false display; artificial show. "An affectation of contempt." Macaulay.
    Affectation is an awkward and forced imitation of what should be genuine and easy, wanting the beauty that accompanies what is natural what is natural. Locke.
  2. A striving after. Obs. Bp. Pearson.
  3. Fondness; affection. Obs. Hooker.

Webster 1913