affect
UK: əˈfɛkt | US: əˈfɛkt
vt. to influence or produce a change in something
vt. to pretend to feel or possess (an emotion, quality, etc.)
n. (Psychology) an observable emotional response
The word "affect" originates from Latin afficere ("to do to, act on"), composed of ad- (toward) + facere (to do/make). Over time, it evolved in Middle English (via Old French affecter) to signify both "to influence" and "to pretend," reflecting the dual logic of external action (doing something to another) and internal simulation (making an impression). The psychological sense emerged in the 19th century to describe observable emotions.
Climate change will affect global agriculture.
She affected a British accent to impress her friends.
His flat affect concerned the therapist.
The new policy deeply affects small businesses.
He affected indifference, though he was deeply hurt.