apply

verb

ap·​ply ə-ˈplī 

applied; applying

transitive verb

1

a

: to put to use especially for some practical purpose

He applies pressure to get what he wants.

b

: to bring into action

apply the brakes

c

: to lay or spread on

apply varnish

d

: to put into operation or effect

apply a law

2

: to employ diligently or with close attention

You should apply yourself to your work.

intransitive verb

1

: to have relevance or a valid connection

This rule applies to freshmen only.

2

: to make an appeal or request especially in the form of a written application

apply for a job

applier

ə-ˈplī(-ə)r 

noun

Synonyms

• appertain
• bear
• pertain
• refer
• relate

Examples of apply in a Sentence

For further information, apply to the address below.

I applied in writing to several different companies.

You must have a high school diploma for this job. High school dropouts need not apply.

After applying a thin layer of paint to the wall and letting it dry, apply another coat.

We applied the ointment to the cut.

I washed my face and applied fresh makeup.

Fertilizer was applied to the lawn every two weeks.

Recent Examples on the Web

During this trial phase, the fee only applies to the 29 days deemed the busiest—between April 25 and July 14—and the tickets themselves will remain valid from 8:30 am to 4 pm. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 26 Apr. 2024

For the new study, her team had 12 people apply Neosporin inside their nostrils twice a day for a week, while another seven people used Vaseline for comparison. —Jamie Ducharme, TIME, 26 Apr. 2024

Beecham then applied a deep stroke of eyeliner and fluffy lashes to further enhance Henson's eyes. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 26 Apr. 2024

The minimum price also applies to four-packs of cigars. —Steve Karnowski, Fortune, 26 Apr. 2024

Movies Emma Stone applies to be on ‘Jeopardy!’ — the real one — every year. —Nardine Saad, Los Angeles Times, 26 Apr. 2024

What’s the difference between a serum and a supplement Expert tips to apply hair growth serums Do hair growth serums really work? —Deanna Pai, Vogue, 25 Apr. 2024

Additional fees apply for one-hour delivery windows on all orders, where available. —Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 25 Apr. 2024

One of the first to try out the builder’s remedy was Cedar Street Partners, which applied to build affordable housing in the affluent Southern California city of La Cañada Flintridge. —Kate Talerico, The Mercury News, 14 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English aplien, applien "to join, combine, use for a certain purpose, put to use (an expression, word), strive (to do something)," borrowed from Anglo-French aplier, applier "to put to use or operation, attach to oneself, conform, bend" (continental Middle French apploier, applier "to employ, put to use"), going back to Latin applicāre "to bring into contact (with), situate near, bring to bear (on), make applicable or relevant (to)," from ap- ap- entry 1 + -plicāre "to fold, bend" — more at ply entry 3

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Phrases Containing apply

• apply for college
• apply oneself

Kids Definition

apply

verb

ap·​ply ə-ˈplī 

applied; applying

1

a

: to put to use

apply knowledge

b

: to lay or spread on

apply a coat of paint

c

: to place in contact

apply heat

d

: to put into operation or effect

apply a law

2

: to give one's full attention

applied myself to the work

3

: to have relation or a connection

this law applies to everyone

4

: to make an application : make a request

apply for a job

applier

-ˈplī(-ə)r 

noun

Medical Definition

apply

transitive verb

ap·​ply ə-ˈplī 

applied; applying

: to lay or spread on

apply antiseptic to a cut