(of an operation on a set of elements) giving an equivalent expression when elements are grouped without change of order, as ( a + b ) + c = a + ( b + c ).
b.
having reference to this property: associative law of multiplication.
a. being independent of the grouping of numbers, symbols, or terms within a given set, as in conjunction or in an expression such as (2 × 3) × 4 = 2 × (3 × 4)
b. referring to this property: the associative laws of arithmetic
associative (ə-sō'shə-tĭv) Pronunciation Key
Of or relating to the property of an operation, such as addition or multiplication, which states that the grouping of numbers undergoing the operation does not change the result. For example, 3 + (4 + 5) is equal to (3 + 4) + 5. See also commutative, distributive.