applicant

noun

ap·​pli·​cant ˈa-pli-kənt 

: one who applies

a job applicant

Synonyms

• 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

The Chiefs have retained CAA ICON to evaluate those applicants. —Kansas City Star, 7 Oct. 2025

Some employers like Google, Microsoft, and EY have all offered high-level jobs to applicants without degrees, focusing on work experience and special credentialing. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 7 Oct. 2025

Kaufman said in the two years since October 7, the Federation has had an increase in applicants for jobs, despite the increase in anti-Jewish incidents throughout the country. —Miami Herald, 6 Oct. 2025

These applicants are advised to check their status using the Entrant Status Check and their unique DV-2026 confirmation number. —Alia Shoaib, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Oct. 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