affect3

 
Pronunciation: /ˈafɛkt/

noun

[mass noun] Psychology
  • emotion or desire as influencing behaviour.

Derivatives

affectless

adjective

affectlessness

noun

Origin:

late 19th century: coined in German from Latin affectus 'disposition', from afficere 'to influence' (see affect2)

Do not confuse affect with effect. Affect means 'make a difference to; change' ( the changes will affect everyone), whereas effect means either 'a result' ( the drug has a painkilling effect) or 'bring about a result' ( he effected a cost-cutting exercise).