Affectionally

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a manner that shows a deep emotional connection and warmth towards another person
2. Expressed with gentle care and fondness towards someone or something
3. Done with warmth and kindness that reflects a close emotional bond

Etymology: "Affectionally" is a plain formation: the adjective "affectional" with the adverb ending "-ly" added. The adjective is built from "affection" plus "-al", a suffix that turns a noun into an adjective meaning "relating to" or "characterised by." "Affection" itself comes from Latin "affectio," a state of mind or disposition, with the root meaning to act upon or influence someone's feelings. The "-al" ending entered English through Middle English from Old French and ultimately from Latin "-ālis," so "affectional" is in effect a Latin-derived adjective with an English adverb tacked on the end. The "-ly" half traces back much further, to a Proto-Germanic suffix meaning "having the form or appearance of," which became Old English "-līċe" and gradually wore down to the "-ly" we use now.