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

What truly sets it apart, however, is its metal rollerball applicator. — Christa Joanna Lee, Glamour, 23 Oct. 2026

That precision also makes the applicator useful for creating small, natural-looking freckle dots. — Ashley Lynch, Kansas City Star, 21 Oct. 2026

Revlon’s product page describes the ink as a brow filler with a pointed applicator, available in four shades. — Ashley Lynch, Miami Herald, 21 Oct. 2026

Refy's Lip Blur takes a smarter approach by pairing a blurring formula with a rounded applicator that diffuses the edges, rather than creating the kind of sharp, precise line that can look severe on lips that have lost volume. — Sheryl George, Allure, 20 Oct. 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]") + -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)