associate

make a logical or causal connection

keep company with; hang out with

“He associates with strange people”

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

a friend who is frequently in the company of another

bring or come into association or action

any event that usually accompanies or is closely connected with another

“first was the lightning and then its thunderous associate”

a person who joins with others in some activity or endeavor

“he had to consult his associate before continuing”

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

“associates in the law firm bill at a lower rate than do partners”

having partial rights and privileges or subordinate status

“an associate member”