n. 同伴；合作人；联合公司（associate的复数形式）

n a person who joins with others in some activity or endeavor

n a friend who is frequently in the company of another

n a person with subordinate membership in a society, institution, or commercial enterprise

n any event that usually accompanies or is closely connected with another

n a degree granted by a two-year college on successful completion of the undergraduates course of studies

v make a logical or causal connection

v keep company with; hang out with

v bring or come into association or action