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

In lieu of celebrities and socialites, the competition will open the doors to the now-infamous Scottish castle to 22 everyday Americans, hand-selected from a nationwide search resulting in over 60,000 hopeful applicants. —Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 18 June 2026

The program prioritizes accessibility, welcoming applicants over 18 years of age with minimal work experience, and regardless of their educational background. —Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

And all of the grants awarded require the applicants to find matching funds, doubling the amount of money available. —Noelle Phillips, Denver Post, 18 June 2026

The best rates are generally reserved for applicants with strong credit scores and stable incomes. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 18 June 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