1. people who work together or are connected in business or other activities
Usage: plural of associate

1. to connect or link someone or something with another person or thing in one’s mind
Usage: third person singular present
2. to spend time with or be involved with someone
Usage: third person singular present

Examples

• The law firm’s associates worked late to prepare for the trial.
• She associates the smell of cookies with her grandmother’s kitchen.
• He associates with people from many different backgrounds.
• The company’s associates gathered for the annual meeting.
• Most people associate owls with wisdom.
• She rarely associates with her former classmates anymore.
• The business associates signed a new partnership agreement.