# app

Pronunciation: say "AP" /æp/

## Noun

1. A software program, typically a small one made to run on a smartphone or tablet.
   - Simple: A computer program, especially a small one you use on a phone or tablet.
   - _The startup launched its first app on both major phone platforms._
   - _Most messaging apps now offer encrypted calls._
2. A formal request to be admitted to a college or university. *(colloquial)*
   - Simple: A written request to join a school or college.
   - _She submitted her app to three universities before the deadline._
   - _The admissions office reviews thousands of apps each fall._
3. A small first course or starter eaten before the main meal. *(colloquial)*
   - Simple: A small dish of food eaten before the main meal.
   - _She picked a spicy app off the happy-hour menu._
   - _We split a couple of apps before our entrees arrived._
4. A single appearance by a player in a match or game.
   - Simple: A time a player takes part in a game.
   - _The midfielder marked his hundredth app with a goal._
   - _Injuries limited her to just five apps last season._

## Other meanings

- (noun) A practical use or purpose to which something is put, as distinct from a software program.

## Origin

**Meanings 1–2** — A shortening of "application."
**Meaning 3** — A shortening of "appetizer."
**Meaning 4** — A shortening of "appearance."

Source: DictionaryAI, https://dictionaryai.com/define/app (written from Wiktionary data, CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/).