verb

Connect (someone or something) with something else in one’s mind.

I associated wealth with freedom

link,connect,couple,relate,identify,equate,bracket,think of together

noun

A partner or companion in business or at work.

a close associate of the Minister

partner,colleague,co-worker,fellow worker,workmate,compatriot,comrade,friend,ally,supporter,wingman,confederate,connection,contact,acquaintance

adjective

Connected with an organization or business.

an associate company