# Association

A general relationship in which objects know about or work with one another.

## What is **Association** in Java?

**Association** — A general relationship in which objects know about or work with one another.

```java
class Engine {
    String start() {
        return "Started";
    }
}

class Car {
    private final Engine engine = new Engine();

    String drive() {
        return engine.start();
    }
}
```

Level: Journeyman · [More Java terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/subjects/java/journeyman)

Updated: September 27, 2026

## In other subjects

- [Association in OOP](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/association-oop)

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/association