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

The scheme for establishing semiconductor plants in the country extends fiscal support of up to 50% of project cost for approved applicants, according to the Indian government. —Dylan Butts, CNBC, 15 May 2025

The finance department said the cap is expected to result in an enrollment decline of 18,000 patients per month as people exceed income limits or drop out for other reasons and no new applicants are accepted. —Taryn Luna, Los Angeles Times, 14 May 2025

Students should take a similar critical approach to using AI tools to craft other aspects of their applicant profiles. —Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025

Unlike in other counties, applicants no longer need to be eligible for Social Security benefits to apply for the property tax freeze. —Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 13 May 2025

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