Word associations are connections made between words based on their meanings, sounds, or experiences. When one word is mentioned, it can trigger thoughts of another word that is related in some way. For example, saying the word dog might lead someone to think of bark, fetch, or pet. This process helps in understanding language and enhancing vocabulary. In psychology, word associations are often used in tests to explore a person's thoughts and feelings. These tests can reveal how individuals connect ideas and can provide insights into their mental processes. For instance, a response to the word love might evoke words like family, friendship, or happiness.