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

Despite the ongoing war with Iran, recruiters interviewed said the conflict has rarely surfaced in conversations with applicants. — Steven Beynon, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

The government requires applicants to spend at least two weeks in Portugal for the first two years of their residency visa. — Kevinisha Walker, Los Angeles Times, 17 Aug. 2026

Much of the policy focus on workplace AI has centered on how employers use algorithmic tools to make decisions about applicants and employees. — Alonzo Martinez, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

Standout features Accepts applicants with credit scores as low as 580. — Cnbc Select, CNBC, 17 Aug. 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