# associative

/əˈsoʊʃəˌtɪv/ (US) · /ɐsˈəʊsiətˌɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/associative
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

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