associate

IPA

Dictionary definition of associate

To make a connection or link two or more things together, either mentally or in a social context.
"The brand wants consumers to associate its logo with quality and reliability."

Detailed meaning of associate

It involves the identification of relationships, similarities, or affiliations between different entities or concepts. When used in a social context, it refers to establishing or maintaining a relationship, typically of friendship, companionship, or partnership, with someone. It can also involve joining or affiliating oneself with a group, organization, or cause. On the other hand, when used in a mental or cognitive sense, it implies connecting or linking ideas, memories, or experiences together based on similarities or shared characteristics. Associating can be a deliberate and conscious act, such as when we intentionally link two concepts or recall specific information based on previous experiences. Alternatively, it can also occur subconsciously, where our minds automatically connect certain stimuli or cues with specific meanings or experiences. Overall, the verb "associate" encompasses the process of establishing connections, relationships, or associations, whether social or cognitive, between various entities or ideas.

Example sentences containing associate

1. I often associate the color blue with calmness and tranquility.
2. She likes to associate herself with successful and ambitious individuals.
3. The brand wants consumers to associate their product with luxury and sophistication.
4. He tends to associate spicy food with intense flavors and excitement.
5. The detective was able to associate the suspect with the crime scene.
6. The organization aims to associate its name with charitable efforts and community support.

History and etymology of associate

The verb 'associate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'associare,' which is a combination of 'ad-' (meaning 'to') and 'sociare' (meaning 'to join' or 'to unite'). In Latin, 'associare' conveyed the idea of joining or uniting together, often in a social or cooperative context. As the word evolved, it transitioned into Old French as 'associer,' and from there, it became 'associate' in English. 'Associate' encompasses the notion of making connections or linking two or more things together, whether mentally or in a social context, reflecting the idea of unity and collaboration. The etymology of 'associate' underscores the historical emphasis on forming connections and relationships, both in thought and in society, to create meaningful associations and alliances.

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Further usage examples of associate

1. I often associate the smell of freshly baked cookies with fond childhood memories.
2. They don't want to associate themselves with people who have questionable reputations.
3. The scientist discovered a new gene that can be associated with certain diseases.
4. The artist wants viewers to associate her paintings with emotions and personal experiences.
5. It is important to associate regular exercise with better overall health.
6. He likes to associate himself with individuals who share similar interests and values.
7. The politician tries to associate his opponents with negative stereotypes to gain an advantage.
8. The company hopes that customers will associate their brand with reliability and quality.
9. The coach wants his team to associate hard work with success on the field.
10. They don't want to associate their product with harmful environmental practices.
11. The child tends to associate bedtime with storytelling and comfort.
12. It is crucial to associate the correct password with your online accounts for security.
13. The fashion designer wants people to associate her brand with creativity and innovation.
14. The professor encourages students to associate the concepts they learn with real-life examples.