application

noun

ap-luh-KAY-shuhn/ˌæp.ləˈkeɪ.ʃən/UKap-li-KAY-shuhn/ˌæp.lɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/

Pluralapplications

9 meanings of application

1
formal requestnouncountable
A formal request for something, like a job, a place at a school, or help.
He sent in his application for the summer job.
Her application to the nursing program was accepted.
UsageSay an application for a job, or to a school.
2
computer programnouncountable
A program you run on a computer or phone to do a certain job.
Like one tool in a toolbox, built to do a single job.
She downloaded a new application to edit her photos.
This application helps you track how much water you drink each day.
UsageMost people just say app.
Similarapp, program
Note
3
practical usenouncountable or uncountable
The use of something, like an idea or a rule, for a particular purpose or in a particular case.
The application of these simple rules made the game much fairer.
Careful application of the new method saved the team a lot of time.
UsageSay the application of an idea to something.
4
putting onnouncountable or uncountable
The act of putting something onto a surface, like spreading or laying it on.
Like spreading butter onto a slice of bread.
The application of the paint left a smooth, even finish.
She felt relief right after the application of the cool cream.
UsageSay the application of paint or cream.
Oppositeremoval

Practice

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Origin

From Latin "applicātiō", from "applicō" meaning "join to, attach, apply". It came into English through Old French.

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 4 facts

Application derives from Latin applicātiō through Old French. en.wiktionary.org
Latin applicātiō derives from applicō. en.wiktionary.org
Latin applicō means join to, attach, or apply. en.wiktionary.org
The word entered English through Old French. en.wiktionary.org