Attachment

Definition

Attachment refers to the act or process of joining, affixing, or associating something with another. It can describe an emotional connection or bond with a person, place, or object. In technology, it often refers to a file or document sent with an email. As a noun, it is used to convey the idea of physical or emotional connection, or as an item appended to another.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈtætʃmənt/
• Respelling: uh-TACH-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈtætʃmənt/
• Respelling: uh-TACH-muhnt

The pronunciation of "attachment" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "attachment" originates from the Old French "atachier," meaning "to attach or fix," derived from the Latin "ad-" (to) and "tangere" (to touch). It entered English in the 14th century, initially describing a physical joining and later evolving to include emotional associations and technological uses.

Derivatives

• Attached (adjective)
• Attaching (verb)
• Attachable (adjective)
• Attachment disorder (noun)
• Reattachment (noun)

Synonyms

• Bond
• Connection
• Affixation

Antonyms

• Separation
• Detachment
• Disconnection

Usage

The term "attachment" is widely used across various fields, including psychology, where it refers to an emotional bond, often between parents and children. In digital communication, it describes a file added to an email for the recipient to view or download. The concept of attachment is also significant in legal and mechanical contexts, where it can refer to a supplementary component or an appended item, such as a court-issued lien or an accessory for a tool.

Related Terms

• Affix: To stick, attach, or fasten something to something else.
• Bond: An emotional or physical connection between people or objects.
• Accessory: An additional item that is added to enhance functionality.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An emotional connection or bond: Refers to a psychological association or closeness with another person or object.
  • Example: "She felt a strong attachment to her childhood home."
• A file added to an email or message: In technology, a file or document appended to digital communication for sharing purposes.
  • Example: "Please find the report as an attachment in this email."
• A physical addition to an object: Describes a component or part added to enhance an item, such as an accessory.
  • Example: "The vacuum cleaner comes with several useful attachments."