association

as-so-ci-a-tion · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An organized group of people with a common purpose or interest.

  2. 2.

    A mental connection or link between things.

  3. 3.

    The act of associating or the state of being associated.

  4. 4.

    A connection or relationship between people or organizations.

Forms

plural: associations

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    by association — through connection with something else
  • •
    free association — saying whatever comes to mind, used in psychology
  • •
    guilt by association — being blamed for the actions of those one associates with
  • •
    word association — a psychological test using connected words

Related words

Antonyms: dissociation, separation
See also: associate, associated, organization, society
Synonyms: connection, link, organization, society

Etymology

From Medieval Latin associatio, from Latin associare ("to join with"), from ad- ("to") + socius ("companion").