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

The shades offer budge-proof, crease-resistant color in 10 duos, with the same pigment, pearl and glitter as the original formula—in an easy, one-stop-swipe applicator. —Dahvi Shira, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025

The best way to apply this paste is either with your scrubbing applicator or a scraper to make sure there's an even application along the grout lines. —Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 28 June 2025

This metallic blue tube boasts a cooling metal rollerball applicator to instantly de-puff and is loaded with vitamin C, collagen, and peptides to plump and fight bags beneath your blinkers. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 21 Apr. 2025

Whitening pens: These are pen-like applicators that can be used to add whitening gels directly to teeth. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 15 May 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)