verb (used with object) 1.to give the appearance of; pretend or feign: to affect knowledge of the situation.
2.to assume artificially, pretentiously, or for effect: to affect a Southern accent.
3.to use, wear, or adopt by preference; choose; prefer: the peculiar costume he affected.
4.to assume the character or attitude of: to affect the freethinker.
5.(of things) to tend toward habitually or naturally: a substance that affects colloidal form.
EXPAND6.(of animals and plants) to occupy or inhabit; live in or on: Lions affect Africa. Moss affects the northern slopes.
COLLAPSE