attachment

UK: əˈtætʃmənt | US: əˈtætʃmənt

Definition
  1. n. 1. The act of attaching or the state of being attached.

  2. n. 2. A strong emotional bond or connection to someone or something.

  3. n. 3. A supplementary document or file added to an email or other communication.

Structure
attach <to fasten>ment <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "attachment" originates from the Old French verb atachier (later attacher), meaning "to fasten or fix." This verb likely derived from the Vulgar Latin attaccare, a variant of taccare (to nail or fix), possibly influenced by Germanic roots. The suffix -ment (from Latin -mentum) was added to form a noun indicating the result or action of attaching. Over time, "attachment" evolved to encompass both physical fastening and emotional bonds, reflecting its dual modern meanings.

Examples
  1. The attachment of the document to the email was completed successfully.

  2. She felt a deep attachment to her childhood home.

  3. Please review the attachment before the meeting.

  4. The baby's attachment to its mother is crucial for emotional development.

  5. The screw ensures a secure attachment of the shelf to the wall.