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

Made with solid brush fibers, the applicator combs and controls the placement of the product so the finish is clump-free. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 28 Aug. 2026

With one gentle squeeze of a tweezer or lash applicator, they’re secured in place all day and look completely, utterly natural. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 17 Aug. 2026

The proposal would require applicators to provide at least 72 hours’ notice before spraying within a half-mile of those areas. — Christiana Freitag, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026

Even the wand applicator is an overachiever, with three distinct edges designed for everything from precise spot-concealing to highlighting and contouring. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 14 Aug. 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)