1. Definition & Meaning
- Affection (noun): A gentle feeling of fondness, warmth, or love toward someone or something.
2. Pronunciation
- IPA: /əˈfɛkʃən/
- Breakdown: uh-FEK-shun
3. Grammatical Formation
| Part of Speech | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | affection (uncountable) | “She felt deep affection for her childhood friend.” |
| Adjective | affectionate / əˈfɛkʃənət/ | “He gave her an affectionate hug.” |
4. Synonyms (comma‑separated)
fondness, tenderness, warmth, love, adoration, care, attachment
5. Antonyms (comma‑separated)
indifference, coldness, aloofness, detachment, hostility
6. Related Terms
- Affectionate (adj.): Showing warmth or fondness.
- Affectionately (adv.): In a warm, loving manner.
- Infatuation: Intense but short‑lived passion or admiration.
- Empathy: The ability to understand and share another’s feelings.
- Compassion: Sympathy and concern for others’ suffering.
7. Common Collocations
- show affection
- express affection
- affection for
- parental affection
- growing affection
- display affection
- affectionate gesture
8. Idiomatic Usage & Expressions
- “Shower someone with affection” – give lots of loving attention.
- “Puppy‑dog eyes” – an expression showing affection or pleading.
- “Wear one’s heart on one’s sleeve” – openly display feelings or affection.
- “Affection is the oil that eases friction” – proverb highlighting its smoothing effect.
9. Sample Sentences
- “Grandparents often show affection by telling children stories.”
- “She expressed her affection with a warm, affectionate smile.”
- “Their growing affection was clear in every thoughtful gesture.”
- “He wore his heart on his sleeve, never hiding his affection.”
- “Friends shower each other with affection during tough times.”