PsychologyAugust 22, 2026

affiliative

uh-FIL-ee-ay-tiv

Definition

Relating to the desire for social connection, belonging, and friendly interactions with others.

Etymology

Derived from the Medieval Latin 'affiliatus,' meaning 'adopted as a son,' which comes from the Latin 'ad-' (to) and 'filius' (son), eventually evolving in English to denote forming social or group connections.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe humor styles that promote social bonding and connection, noting that such humor is often absent in individuals who isolate themselves due to avoidant traits.

People who favor dark humor tend to exhibit more problematic personality traits

Read the full article ↗

PsyPost

Related words

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.