applicant

noun

ap·​pli·​cant ˈa-pli-kənt 

: one who applies

a job applicant

Synonyms

• applier
• aspirant
• campaigner
• candidate
• contender
• expectant
• hopeful
• prospect
• seeker

Examples of applicant in a Sentence

We interviewed 30 qualified applicants for the job.

have numerous applicants for the job

Recent Examples on the Web

Submissions are now open until October 22, with successful applicants noticed by October 31. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 4 Oct. 2024

Additionally, employers cannot discuss the applicant’s criminal history until the applicant has received a copy of the criminal background report the employer uses to make their decision. —Alonzo Martinez, Forbes, 4 Oct. 2024

Homeless residents account for roughly 6% of applicants on MSHDA’s voucher waitlist. —Nushrat Rahman, Detroit Free Press, 4 Oct. 2024

Beginning Monday, an applicant or recipient of SSI would not be turned down for benefits or see reduced benefits based on any informal food assistance that the person might receive from friends, family, and community networks. —Susan Tompor, USA TODAY, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

applicate "to apply, put to use" (borrowed from Latin applicātus, past participle of applicāre "to bring into contact [with], situate near, bring to bear [on]") + -ant entry 1 — more at apply

First Known Use

circa 1742, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

applicant

noun

ap·​pli·​cant ˈap-li-kənt 

: one who applies for something

an applicant for work