Definition & Meaning of "associative meaning"

What is "associative meaning"?

Associative meaning refers to the ideas, feelings, or connections that a word or expression brings to mind beyond its literal definition. This meaning can be influenced by personal experiences, cultural background, and social context. For example, the word "home" may not only mean a physical place where one lives but can also evoke feelings of comfort, safety, and belonging. Understanding associative meaning helps to grasp the emotional and cultural nuances of language, as it highlights how words can carry different meanings based on individual perspectives.