Definition of affiliative
: relating to the formation of social and emotional bonds with others or to the desire to create such bonds
- It is interesting and significant that most cult members join because of affiliative needs to be with others.
- —Scott Smith, The Capital (Maryland), 24 Apr. 2008
- They have found oxytocin, a hormone associated with affiliative impulses, which may help initiate the onset of a loving bond between mother and infant.
- —Natalie Angier, New York Times, 24 May 1994
