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 one is packaged with a cooling applicator that helps depuff and awaken the skin with a few swipes. —Kayla Blanton, PEOPLE, 20 Dec. 2025

Meanwhile, the pointed applicator is designed to line, define and fill, blending the color evenly on top of the lips. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 18 Dec. 2025

The serum bottle and applicator brush also feature a super simple design that is similar to applying liquid eyeliner—something that my former emo teen self knows a lot about, despite choosing more au naturale makeup in my 30s. —Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 15 Dec. 2025

When using liquid liners with a brush applicator, Peace suggests holding the brush on its side rather than using the very tip. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 15 Dec. 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)