Association
/əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsA connection, link, or relationship between two or more things.
/əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
A connection or relationship between things.
There's a clear association between smoking and lung cancer.
💡 Simply: Things that go together.
More Examples
The association of ideas is a key concept in psychology.
How It's Used
"The study explored the association between stress and illness."
"There's a strong association between poverty and crime."
A group of people with a shared purpose or interest.
/əˌsoʊsiˈeɪʃən/
An organization of people with a common interest.
He's a member of the professional association for writers.
💡 Simply: A club or group.
More Examples
The homeowners' association manages the community's facilities.
How It's Used
"The trade association represents small businesses."
"She joined a local volunteer association."
Idioms & expressions
by association
Because of a connection or relationship with someone or something else.
"He was implicated by association with known criminals."
From Middle French association, from Latin associatio, from associare "to associate", from ad- "to" + sociare "to join", from socius "companion".
The word 'association' has been used in similar ways for centuries, highlighting connections between ideas and people.
Memory tip
Think of 'associating' ideas together.
Word Origin
"to join together"