Main Entry:

ap·ply

Pronunciation:

\ə-ˈplī\

Function:

verb

Inflected Form(s):

ap·plied; ap·ply·ing

Etymology:

Middle English applien, from Anglo-French aplier, from Latin applicare, from ad- + plicare to fold — more at ply

Date:

14th century

transitive verb1 a: to put to use especially for some practical purpose <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 <should apply yourself to your work>intransitive verb1: 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>

— ap·pli·er \-ˈplī(-ə)r\ noun