free association

American  

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.

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free association British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of free association

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

“This conversation could have been had through normal channels in a normal way that didn’t involve threats,” said Tidwell, who thinks free association is viable for Greenland.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 2026

The self-governing Cook Islands remain in "free association" with former colonial ruler New Zealand, which is still involved in areas such as defence and foreign affairs.

From Barron's • Dec. 2, 2025

Among those with positive feelings, according to a recent Hart Research poll, 42% support the current commonwealth status, 29% statehood, 11% free association, also called “sovereign commonwealth,” and 11% independence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 24, 2025

UN rights chief Volker Turk "renews his call on security forces to desist from unnecessary force and to uphold the rights to free association and peaceful assembly," it said.

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

He also discussed in detail the pertinent aspects of our therapy sessions—especially my changing attitudes toward free association on the couch.

From "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes