applicant

noun

ap·​pli·​cant ˈa-pli-kənt How to pronounce applicant (audio)
: one who applies
a job applicant

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Schott says that the partnering universities are required to screen their applicants and choose the top two or three. Margaret Buranen, USA Today, 21 Oct. 2025 How would the new ruling impact DACA recipients and first-time applicants? Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Oct. 2025 The bureau also published its first Federal Textbook on Citizenship in 1918 to allow applicants to prepare. Chad De Guzman, Time, 21 Oct. 2025 The first step is a roughly 20 minute interview with an AI chatbot, which asks questions based on the applicant’s resume. Dave Smith, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for applicant

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of applicant was circa 1742

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Applicant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/applicant. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

applicant

noun
ap·​pli·​cant ˈap-li-kənt How to pronounce applicant (audio)
: one who applies for something
an applicant for work

More from Merriam-Webster on applicant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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