Definitions

1. noun

a company or organization formed by people with a common interest or purpose

“She worked for a professional association that promoted environmental causes.”

2. noun

a feeling or idea that is shared by many people

“There was a strong association between the smell of freshly baked cookies and feelings of happiness.”

3. verb

to connect or join something with something else

“The two companies associated their manufacturing processes to increase efficiency.”

4. verb

to identify or recognize something as being related to something else

“The detective associated the suspect with a similar crime that occurred last year.”

5. verb

to feel a connection or feeling of kinship with someone or something

“She associated herself with the activist group because of their shared values.”