What term describes a person that one stays in connection with?

The term "Contact" is appropriate for describing a person with whom one maintains a connection, particularly in a business or professional context. A contact is typically someone whose information—such as phone number or email—one keeps for communication or networking purposes. This term encompasses a broad range of relationships, from casual acquaintances to more formal professional connections, making it versatile in use.

In contrast, other terms provide narrower definitions. An "Associate" often refers to someone with whom one is closely related or engaged in business, but the implications can suggest a deeper professional interaction. A "Colleague" specifically denotes a peer in the same professional environment or workplace, reflecting a shared employment context. "Acquaintance," on the other hand, describes someone known slightly but not intimately, lacking the professional or networking connotation of "Contact." Thus, "Contact" captures the essence of maintaining a connection effectively in various contexts.