associative

1. (algebra, of a binary operator *) Such that, for any operands a,b and c, (a*b)*c=a*(b*c); (of a ring, etc.) whose multiplication operation is associative.Examples: "Perhaps it is an advantage of the "associative algebraic geometry" we have tried to develop in foregoing chapters that it is independent of braidings and further generalizations because it will remain valid as long as the corresponding "function"-rings constructed in these theories are associative algebras."; "It is now generally accepted that the representation theory of associative algebras traces its origin to Hamilton's description of the complex numbers by pairs of real numbers."; "In this section we develop the basic theory of normed algebras, putting special emphasis on the case of complete normed unital associative complex algebras."

2. (computing) Addressable by a key more complex than an integer index.Examples: "AWK's associative arrays may be indexed by strings."; "Associative memories were once given considerable attention."