applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈa-plə-ˌkā-tər 

: one that applies

specifically : a device for applying a substance (such as medicine or polish)

Examples of applicator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This kit also comes with a funnel for filling the bottles up with products, plus two toothbrush covers, a contact lens applicator, and clear labels for each product. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 2 Oct. 2025

It’s made with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, and it can even be paired with your favorite lip balm or gloss — without staining the applicator — for an extra boost of moisture. —Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025

Unlike some lash adhesives, DUO is applied directly to the lash band with the applicator. —Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 25 Sep. 2025

There weren’t any needles, pokes, or prods involved, just a simple applicator patch that stuck to the side of my stomach to help the machine navigate where to output the energy. —Essence, 24 Sep. 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]") + -or entry 1 — more at apply

First Known Use

1659, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for applicator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator
• calculator

Kids Definition

applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər 

: a device for applying a substance (as medicine or polish)

Medical Definition

applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər 

: one that applies

specifically : a device for applying a substance (as medicine)