An affectation is a way of speaking, acting, or dressing that isn't natural to someone but that they've adopted to seem more impressive, sophisticated, or interesting. When someone develops an affectation, they're putting on a show rather than being themselves.

You might notice affectations in someone who suddenly starts using fancy words they don't normally say, or who puts on a fake accent after visiting another country for just a week. A student who starts wearing a monocle and carrying a pocket watch to seem more intellectual is displaying an affectation. These behaviors feel forced because they are: the person is trying too hard to create an impression.

Affectations often backfire because people can usually tell when someone isn't being genuine. A person who naturally loves reading isn't showing an affectation when they talk about books, but if they start dramatically sighing over poetry they don't actually enjoy just to seem cultured, that's an affectation.

We all experiment with new interests and behaviors as we grow, which is healthy and normal. An affectation is different: it's a performance meant to impress others rather than a genuine expression of who you are or who you're becoming.