applicant

noun

ap·​pli·​cant ˈa-pli-kənt 

: one who applies

a job applicant

Synonyms of applicant

• candidate

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

City staffers proposed that applicants for the annual permit be required to obtain the signatures of 80% of neighborhood residents for approval. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Feb. 2026

This year, more employers are also focusing on job applicants’ skills rather than academic degrees or grade point averages, NACE’s Job Outlook 2026 survey found. —Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 8 Feb. 2026

However, Miami-Dade Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez said the state is allowing a limited transition period for certain applicants. —Ivan Taylor, CBS News, 7 Feb. 2026

Turns out some of those postings are fake, while others are sponsored by employers who believe that ghosting applicants is A-OK. —Amy Lindgren, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2026

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