applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈa-plə-ˌkā-tər 

: one that applies

specifically : a device for applying a substance (such as medicine or polish)

Examples of applicator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The metal tip applicator glided on smoothly, making application easy while providing a cooling sensation that helped reduce puffiness. —L.a. Hubilla, People.com, 9 Dec. 2024

Luxurious to apply and incredibly effective, everything about this gloss feels special—from the doe-foot applicator that glides on effortlessly to the gorgeous packaging. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2024

The dropper applicator makes removing just a small amount of product easy. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 3 Dec. 2024

Use the applicator to swipe from the inner corner outward. —Felicity Carter, Forbes, 28 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]") + -or entry 1 — more at apply

First Known Use

1659, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər 

: a device for applying a substance (as medicine or polish)

Medical Definition

applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər 

: one that applies

specifically : a device for applying a substance (as medicine)