affirmation

noun

af·​fir·​ma·​tion ˌa-fər-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce affirmation (audio)
1
a
: the act of affirming
nodded his head in affirmation
b
: something affirmed : a positive assertion
His memoir is a reflective affirmation of family love.
2
law : a solemn declaration made under the penalties of perjury by a person who conscientiously declines taking an oath

Examples of affirmation in a Sentence

a sworn affirmation that he had never acted as a spy for the enemy
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Good friends and positive affirmations always help. Akili King, Essence, 13 Oct. 2025 At a time when so many negative narratives surround the Latino community, this kind of cultural affirmation matters deeply. Ana Mariella Rivera, Twin Cities, 12 Oct. 2025 While the braille labels provide practical functionality for blind and visually impaired children, the affirmations and tactile elements invite all kids to engage with the product. Brittany Talarico, PEOPLE, 10 Oct. 2025 Everyone did their best, sensing the love and affirmation from this audience of their peers, families and friends. Cory Trenda, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for affirmation

Word History

Etymology

Middle English affirmacioun, borrowed from Anglo-French affirmation, affermacion, borrowed from Latin affirmātiōn-, affirmātiō, from affirmāre "to affirm" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of action nouns

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of affirmation was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Affirmation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/affirmation. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

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