associate

/əˈsoʊsieɪt/
verbnounIntermediate
general

To connect or link in the mind or imagination.

I associate this song with my childhood.

This song reminds me of my childhood.

💡

Often used to describe mental connections or impressions.

general

To work or be connected with someone in a professional or social capacity.

She associates with influential people in her field.

She works with or is connected to influential people.

💡

Can imply a formal or informal relationship.

general

A person connected with another in a professional or social capacity.

He is a close associate of the CEO.

He is a close professional or social connection of the CEO.

💡

Often used in business or organizational contexts.

Collocations

associate withlink or connect in the mindassociate closely withhave a strong connection withassociate oneself withvoluntarily connect oneself with

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

associate degreephrase
a two-year undergraduate degree
associate professorphrase
a professor below the rank of full professor

💡Pro Tip

Verb vs. Noun Usage

As a verb, 'associate' often describes mental connections, while as a noun, it refers to a person connected in a professional or social context.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning of 'associate' can vary significantly based on context, so pay attention to how it is used in a sentence.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'associāre', meaning 'to join together', from 'ad-' (to) + 'socius' (companion).

📝Usage Notes

Can be used both as a verb and a noun. As a verb, it often implies a mental or professional connection. As a noun, it refers to a person connected in a professional or social context.

Word Breakdown

asso-
together
prefix
+
-ciate
join or unite
suffix
English Dictionary