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

Several American applicants were allegedly turned away even when the companies were actively hiring. — Jessica Alvarado Gamez, Denver Post, 2 July 2026

North Natomas Jibe also provides a $600 vanpool subsidy per vehicle for eligible applicants. — Sacbee.com, 1 July 2026

The scammers demand payment via wire transfer, gift cards or cryptocurrency ATMs, threatening to stall or cancel projects if applicants don’t pay immediately. — Chadd Cripe. Produced With Ai Assistance, Idaho Statesman, 2 July 2026

Moroccan nationals made up 13% of applicants, followed by Venezuelans at 11% and Peruvians at 9%, the government said. — Suman Naishadham, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 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