applicant

noun

ap·​pli·​cant ˈa-pli-kənt How to pronounce applicant (audio)
: one who applies
a job applicant

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
States would also need to verify that applicants meet requirements for one or more consecutive months prior to coverage, while also conducting redeterminations at least twice per year to ensure individuals who are already covered still comply with the requirements. Greg Iacurci,lorie Konish, CNBC, 6 June 2025 The lawsuit accused the company of unfairly rejecting minority applicants based on criminal background checks. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025 Real estate broker in prison One of the loan applicants who paid Lorquet a kickback was Daniela Rendon, who immigrated to the United States a decade ago, according to court records. Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 6 June 2025 One was technical: Any two founding members could block a new applicant from joining. Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for applicant

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of applicant was circa 1742

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Cite this Entry

“Applicant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/applicant. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

applicant

noun
ap·​pli·​cant ˈap-li-kənt How to pronounce applicant (audio)
: one who applies for something
an applicant for work

More from Merriam-Webster on applicant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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