Word
associative
Phoneticsas·so·cia·tive, stress on the second syllable
US/əˈsoʊʃəˌtɪv/
UK/ɐsˈəʊsiətˌɪv/
Definition
adj. relating to a type of memory or data storage where information is linked by meaning rather than by its location. In computing, it describes how data is grouped based on shared characteristics.
adj. relating to the linking of ideas, memories, or data items based on shared characteristics or contextual similarity. In a technical context, it describes data structures or memory systems that retrieve information based on content rather than a specific address.
Examples
“The associative memory helps the computer find related data quickly.”
“In psychology, associative learning explains how people connect a neutral stimulus with a specific response over time.”
“The database uses an associative model to allow users to search for images based on visual similarity rather than relying solely on metadata tags or text descriptions.”
Examples
simple
“The associative memory helps the computer find related data quickly.”
contextual
“In psychology, associative learning explains how people connect a neutral stimulus with a specific response over time.”
complex
“The database uses an associative model to allow users to search for images based on visual similarity rather than relying solely on metadata tags or text descriptions.”
Real-World Examples
“He was a cognitive organism, in full and vibrant colour, and even if he couldn’t find his way to food yet, he was already capable of associative learning.” “Valentine is known for her associative leaps and dreamlike imagery.” Etymology
From associate + -ive.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/associative