Affectlessly

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that demonstrates an absence of emotional expression or connection
2. Performing or communicating with a complete lack of emotional engagement or sensitivity
3. In a manner that lacks any visible emotional reaction or warmth

Etymology: "Affectlessly" is a plain formation: the adverb "affectless" with the adverb-forming suffix "-ly" added to the end. The adjective "affectless" is built from "affect" in its older sense of emotion or feeling, combined with the privative suffix "-less," meaning "without." So an affectless person lacks feeling, and to act affectlessly is to do so without visible emotion or connection. The root "affect" in this sense traces back to Latin "affectus," from "afficere," "to act upon or influence," and it has long been used in English for feelings and moods. That emotional meaning is the one that gives the word its sense here, and it is the older meaning rather than the modern psychological term for an outward display of feeling.

Synonyms: emotionlessly, impassively

Antonyms: emotionally