A gentle feeling of liking or caring for someone or something. It often shows in kind actions, warm words, or physical closeness like hugs.
From Latin *affectio* “a state of feeling, emotion,” from *afficere* “to influence, to move emotionally.” Over time, in English it narrowed toward warm and loving feelings.
‘Affection’ originally covered many kinds of feelings, not just warm fuzzy ones. Today, it has become the soft side of emotion—the part we show through small, steady acts of care.
Affection has often been coded as a feminine trait, with women expected to provide emotional warmth and care. Men’s affection, especially toward children or other men, has historically been constrained by norms about masculinity.
Use 'affection' for emotional warmth across all genders and relationship types, and avoid mocking or policing how different genders show affection.
["warmth","care","fondness"]
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