noun

affiliation

uh-fil-ee-AY-shun/əˌfɪliˈeɪʃn/

A connection with a group, organization, person, or cause.

The matching badge shows the new member's affiliation with the volunteer group.

New member joins group of volunteers with matching small simple leaf emblem on vests, receives matching badge from group leader and smiles.

Etymology

afLatinto, toward

+filiLatinson

+ationLatinaction or process

The 'son' root points to adoption, the word's original meaning. Figurative 'adoption by a society,' especially of a branch or chapter, extended this family image to organizational connection and association.

In context

ANU TV56:32

if you have a question you stand up you identify yourself in any obvious organization or affiliation you might have

Predators, Reapers and post-heroic war - Professor Christian Enemark

More examples

Applicants need not disclose their political affiliations.
The club ended its affiliation with the national organization.
His affiliation with the charity began as a volunteer.

Forms

affiliation · affiliations

affiliate verb — To connect with an organization or group.

Similar words

membership: Specifically means belonging to a group as a member.
association: Can be a looser connection without formal organizational ties.