apply

verb

ap·​ply ə-ˈplī How to pronounce apply (audio)
applied; applying

transitive verb

1
a
: to put to use especially for some practical purpose
He applies pressure to get what he wants.
b
: to bring into action
apply the brakes
c
: to lay or spread on
apply varnish
d
: to put into operation or effect
apply a law
2
: to employ diligently or with close attention
You should apply yourself to your work.

intransitive verb

1
: to have relevance or a valid connection
This rule applies to freshmen only.
2
: to make an appeal or request especially in the form of a written application
apply for a job
applier noun

Examples of apply in a Sentence

For further information, apply to the address below. I applied in writing to several different companies. You must have a high school diploma for this job. High school dropouts need not apply. After applying a thin layer of paint to the wall and letting it dry, apply another coat. We applied the ointment to the cut. I washed my face and applied fresh makeup. Fertilizer was applied to the lawn every two weeks.
Recent Examples on the Web The Power Play multiplier does not apply to prizes win in the Double Play drawing. Tanya Wildt, Detroit Free Press, 21 Mar. 2024 But that doesn't apply to hourly employees or senior executives. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 21 Mar. 2024 This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Eliza Griswold, The New Yorker, 21 Mar. 2024 The deals apply to select styles and colorways, including the Weekender bag in Mini, Convertible and Mini Convertible sizes; Béisics backpacks and duffle bags, diaper totes, laptop pouches and more. Danielle Directo-Meston, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Mar. 2024 Even with very little pressure applied, this dry brush provides an effective exfoliation that leaves skin softer and smoother. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 20 Mar. 2024 Image The visa program that Ms. Wang applied to, called the Top Talent Pass Scheme, was designed to appeal worldwide. Joy Dong, New York Times, 20 Mar. 2024 Village Manager Mark Fitzgerald told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel the businesses applied for an occupancy permit at Whitestone Station last week. Cathy Kozlowicz, Journal Sentinel, 20 Mar. 2024 Wilson says the same applies to other studies that suggest that wasabi can help with healthy weight management by impacting fat cell growth and formation. Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 20 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'apply.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English aplien, applien "to join, combine, use for a certain purpose, put to use (an expression, word), strive (to do something)," borrowed from Anglo-French aplier, applier "to put to use or operation, attach to oneself, conform, bend" (continental Middle French apploier, applier "to employ, put to use"), going back to Latin applicāre "to bring into contact (with), situate near, bring to bear (on), make applicable or relevant (to)," from ap- ap- entry 1 + -plicāre "to fold, bend" — more at ply entry 3

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of apply was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near apply

Cite this Entry

“Apply.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apply. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

apply

verb
ap·​ply ə-ˈplī How to pronounce apply (audio)
applied; applying
1
a
: to put to use
apply knowledge
b
: to lay or spread on
apply a coat of paint
c
: to place in contact
apply heat
d
: to put into operation or effect
apply a law
2
: to give one's full attention
applied myself to the work
3
: to have relation or a connection
this law applies to everyone
4
: to make an application : make a request
apply for a job
applier noun

Medical Definition

apply

transitive verb
ap·​ply ə-ˈplī How to pronounce apply (audio)
applied; applying
: to lay or spread on
apply antiseptic to a cut

More from Merriam-Webster on apply

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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