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 shampoo has an applicator tip for more precise distribution, and it can also be used as a pre-shower cream. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 17 May 2025

What’s worth considering: Coverage may not be full enough for full regrowth Formulation: Powder with sponge applicator Shades: 4 Size: 2 oz. —Neha Tandon, Glamour, 12 May 2025

The applicator wand comes with a soft, brush tip, similar to liquid blush applicators. —Cierra Black, Essence, 6 May 2025

The Hard Candy Lip Blur has a larger applicator that covers more surface area and is easier to fill in the lips but doesn’t work well as a liner. —Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 19 Apr. 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]") + -or entry 1 — more at apply

First Known Use

1659, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for applicator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator
• calculator

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)