DictionaryAI

app

noun
AP/æp/

Pluralapps

5 meanings of app

Practice

  1. 1
    phone programnouncountable
    A computer program, especially a small one you use on a phone or tablet.

    Like a tool in a toolbox: each one does a different job on your phone.

    I downloaded a new app for tracking my workouts.

    She uses a banking app to check her balance.

    UsageYou download an app. Say a banking app, or an app for something.

    Similarapplication, program

    Note
  2. 2
    college requestnouncolloquialcountable
    A written request to join a school or college.

    Like asking to join a club by filling out a form.

    I sent my college app in last week.

    Her app to the art school was accepted.

    UsageSay college app when you talk, but write application to the school.

    Similarapplication

    Note
  3. 3
    starter dishnouncolloquialcountable
    A small dish of food eaten before the main meal.

    Like a warm-up before the big event, but for eating.

    We ordered an app to share while we waited.

    The apps here are better than the main courses.

    UsageMostly apps, on menus. In careful writing, say appetizer.

    Similarappetizer, starter

    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    match playednouncountable
    A time a player takes part in a game.

    Like marking down each time you show up to play.

    He made his first app for the team on Saturday.

    The veteran has over two hundred apps for the club.

    UsageUsually with a number: two hundred apps for the club.

    Similarappearance

    Note
  2. 5
    noun
    A use or purpose that something is put to.

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of app apart? Answer 3 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origins

Meanings 1–2

A short form of the word "application."

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 1 fact

Meaning 3

A short form of the word "appetizer."

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 1 fact

Meaning 4

A short form of the word "appearance."

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 1 fact