applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈa-plə-ˌkā-tər How to pronounce applicator (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The metal tip applicator glided on smoothly, making application easy while providing a cooling sensation that helped reduce puffiness. L.a. Hubilla, People.com, 9 Dec. 2024 Luxurious to apply and incredibly effective, everything about this gloss feels special—from the doe-foot applicator that glides on effortlessly to the gorgeous packaging. Iman Balagam, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2024 The dropper applicator makes removing just a small amount of product easy. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 3 Dec. 2024 Use the applicator to swipe from the inner corner outward. Felicity Carter, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for applicator 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of applicator was in 1659

Dictionary Entries Near applicator

Cite this Entry

“Applicator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/applicator. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

applicator

noun
ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər How to pronounce applicator (audio)
: a device for applying a substance (as medicine or polish)

Medical Definition

applicator

noun
ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər How to pronounce applicator (audio)
: one that applies
specifically : a device for applying a substance (as medicine)

More from Merriam-Webster on applicator

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!