Mate, n. [Perhaps for older make a companion; cf. also OD. maet
companion, mate, D. maat. Cf. Make a companion, Match a mate.] 1. One
who customarily associates with another; a companion; an associate; any
object which is associated or combined with a similar object.
2. Hence, specifically, a husband or wife; and among the lower animals,
one of a pair associated for propagation and the care of their young.