Do associate and devotee mean the same thing?

The word associate means one who constantly remains with the Lord. Those who do not remain constantly with Him cannot be called associates. Even though Śrī Narrottama Dāsa Ṭhākura did not appear during Mahaprabhu’s appearance, he is considered an associate because he appeared to fulfill Mahaprabhu’s desire. Śrī Narrottama Dāsa Ṭhākura is eternally intoxicated by serving Mahaprabhu, and as such he understood Mahaprabhu’s internal moods. He nourished the viṣrambha-bhāva (service performed with love and devotion). Therefore Ṭhākura Mahasaya was also eternally perfect devotee.