free association

noun

Psychoanalysis.

1. the uncensored expression of the ideas, impressions, etc., passing through the mind of the analysand, a technique used to facilitate access to the unconscious.

free association

noun

1. psychoanal a method of exploring a person's unconscious by eliciting words and thoughts that are associated with key words provided by a psychoanalyst

2. a spontaneous mental process whereby ideas, words, or images suggest other ideas, etc, in a nonlogical chain reaction

Word History and Origins

Origin of free association¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

New Zealand has what is known as a "free association" relationship with the Cook Islands, and helps the latter with defence and foreign affairs.

From BBC

One possible next step is a free association - something like the US currently has with Pacific states the Marshall Islands, Micronesia and Palau.

From BBC

He has called for a "free association agreement" with the US covering trade and defence which would give Greenland independence but hand the US responsibility for security.

From BBC

Cook Islands, a self-governing Pacific nation, is in "free association" with New Zealand, which is responsible for the former's foreign affairs and defence.

From BBC

Such is free association in the age of late capitalism.

From Los Angeles Times