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

Wash your brushes and other applicators regularly.4 A Quick Review Wearing makeup regularly has pros and cons. —Sarah Bradley, Health, 16 Apr. 2025

And the super-inclusive shade range is only the tip of the iceberg (end of the applicator?). —Annie Blackman, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025

It is powered by zinc oxide, offers SPF 30 protection, and is easy to apply with the applicator brush. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 2 Apr. 2025

The drugstore gem has a brush-tip applicator and an easy application process. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 25 Mar. 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)