apply

[uh-plahy]

verb (used with object)

applied, applying 

1. to make use of as relevant, suitable, or pertinent.

   to apply a theory to a problem.

2. to put to use, especially for a particular purpose.

   to apply pressure to open a door.

3. to bring into action; use; employ.

   He applied the brakes and skidded to a stop.

   Synonyms: utilize

4. to use a label or other designation.

   Don't apply any such term to me.

5. to use for or assign to a specific purpose.

   He applied a portion of his salary each week to savings.

   Synonyms: dedicate, assign, allot, appropriate

6. to put into effect.

   They applied the rules to new members only.

7. to devote or employ diligently or with close attention.

   to apply one's mind to a problem;

   to apply oneself to a task.

8. to place in contact with; lay or spread on.

   to apply paint to a wall;

   to apply a bandage to a wound.

9. to bring into physical contact with or close proximity to.

   to apply a match to gunpowder.

10. to credit to, as an account.

    to apply $10 to his account at the store.

verb (used without object)

applied, applying 

1. to be pertinent, suitable, or relevant.

   The argument applies to the case.

   The theory doesn't apply.

2. to make an application or request; ask.

   to apply for a job;

   to apply for a raise.

   Synonyms: entreat, sue, petition

3. to lay or spread on.

   The plastic coating is easy to apply on any surface.

4. to be placed or remain in contact.

   This paint doesn't apply very easily.

apply

/ əˈplaɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to put to practical use; utilize; employ

2. (intr) to be relevant, useful, or appropriate

3. (tr) to cause to come into contact with; put onto

4. to put in an application or request

5. to devote (oneself, one's efforts) with diligence

6. (tr) to bring into operation or use

   the police only applied the law to aliens

7. (tr) to refer (a word, epithet, etc) to a person or thing

Other Word Forms

• applier noun
• appliable adjective
• appliableness noun
• appliably adverb
• preapply verb (used with object)
• reapply verb
• unappliable adjective
• unappliably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of apply¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English ap(p)lien, from Anglo-French, Old French ap(p)lier, from Latin applicāre, equivalent to ap- ap- ¹ ( def. ) + plicāre “to fold”; ply ² ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of apply¹

C14: from Old French aplier, from Latin applicāre to attach to

Example Sentences

I applied for Loughborough, and they were like, 'She's just not good enough'.

From BBC

It formalises an agreement, which was announced in July, to apply a 15% levy to almost all Japanese exports to the US - including vehicles and pharmaceuticals.

From BBC

Now, the same principle is being applied to another service we use every day: Online shipping.

From Los Angeles Times

Until now, Paramount staffers were expected to be in the office a couple days a week, but it was not consistently applied, according to people with knowledge of the matter but not authorized to comment.

From Los Angeles Times

Even with the investigation into the Eaton wildfire continuing, Southern California Edison said Wednesday it was creating a program where victims could apply for compensation for damages they suffered.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• administer 
• employ 
• exercise 
• handle 
• implement 
• practice