to connect or bring into relation, as thought, feeling, memory, etc.

Many people associate dark clouds with depression and gloom.

to join as a companion, partner, or ally

to associate oneself with a cause.

to unite; combine

coal associated with shale.

to enter into union; unite.

to keep company, as a friend, companion, or ally

He was accused of associating with known criminals.

to join together as partners or colleagues.

a person who shares actively in anything as a business, enterprise, or undertaking; partner; colleague; fellow worker

He consulted with his associates before proceeding further.

a companion or comrade

my most intimate associates.

a confederate; an accomplice or ally

criminal associates.

anything usually accompanying or associated with another; an accompaniment or concomitant.

a person who is admitted to a subordinate degree of membership in an association or institution

an associate of the Royal Academy.

connected, joined, or related, esp. as a companion or colleague; having equal or nearly equal responsibility

an associate partner.

having subordinate status; without full rights and privileges

an associate member.

allied; concomitant.