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

Miller said the applicants invited several neighbors to review the plans. —Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Nov. 2025

The idea was to look broadly at med school applicants -- at those who may have overcome adversity for instance, not just those with the highest MCAT scores. —Joanne Kenen, NPR, 25 Nov. 2025

To obtain a Real ID-compliant license, applicants should check with their local state’s driver’s licensing agency and make an in-person appointment. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 25 Nov. 2025

The committee spent more than five hours interviewing applicants before selecting Patrick, according to a news release. —Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 25 Nov. 2025

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