Pronunciation: [ɐsɪɡnˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA) 
The word "assignation" is spelled with three syllables: /əsaɪˈneɪʃən/. The first syllable is pronounced with an unstressed schwa sound /ə/. The second syllable is stressed, and the letter "i" is pronounced as a long "i" sound /aɪ/. The third syllable ends with the "-tion" suffix, which is pronounced with a /ʃən/ sound. "Assignation" is a noun used to refer to a secret or romantic meeting between two people, usually lovers.
Assignation is a noun that refers to the act of assigning or designating someone to a particular duty, task, or role. It can also signify the action or process of allocating or apportioning something, such as resources or responsibilities, to individuals or groups. Assignation can further encompass the act of distributing or allotting something, like assignments, appointments, or obligations, to specific individuals or entities.
Additionally, the term can denote a clandestine meeting or an appointment made for romantic, often illicit, purposes. In this context, it implies a secret arrangement between two people who rendezvous or meet discreetly, typically to engage in a forbidden liaison or love affair. These encounters are often arranged behind closed doors, shrouded in secrecy, and can carry a sense of intrigue, excitement, or scandal.
The concept of assignation can encompass both official and unofficial scenarios. It can pertain to the distribution of tasks, roles, or responsibilities within an organization, as well as the organization of covert personal meetings. Overall, assignation conveys the act of designating or allocating something or someone for a specific purpose or role, whether it involves official duties or illicit encounters.
A making over to; an appointment to meet, as of lovers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "assignation" originated from the Latin word "assignare", which means "to assign" or "to mark out". It entered the English language in the late 15th century, initially with the sense of "appointment" or "designation". Over time, its meaning evolved to refer specifically to a secret or amorous rendezvous.
