As‐so″ci‐ate, n. 1. A companion; one frequently in company with another, implying intimacy or equality; a mate; a fellow.
2. A partner in interest, as in business; or a confederate in a league.
3. One connected with an association or institution without the full rights or privileges of a regular member; as, an associate of the Royal Academy.
4. Anything closely or usually connected with another; an concomitant.
The one no sooner comes into the understanding, than its associate appears with it.
Locke.
Syn. — Companion; mate; fellow; friend; ally; partner; coadjutor; comrade; accomplice.