Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

word-association

Noun
/wɜːrd əˌsəʊsiˈeɪʃən/
Definition
A method of thinking that involves generating a list of words that are related to a given word.
Examples
  • During the therapy session, they used word association to help the patient express their thoughts.
  • The game involved quick responses to word associations derived from a given prompt.
  • Her word association skills were impressive; she could come up with related terms almost instantly.
Meaning
Word association refers to the process where one word automatically triggers the recall of another word, based on connections or associations in meaning, sound, or context.
Synonyms
  • Mind mapping
  • Concept association
  • Semantic connection