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 cooling applicator doubles as a de-puffer and deposits just the right amount of color. —Taryn Brooke, Glamour, 6 Mar. 2026

The cream has a metal applicator for extra de-puffing. —Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 5 Mar. 2026

Daub the cut stump with a sponge applicator or a brush to better target the cut end. —Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 19 Feb. 2026

Wisconsin lawmakers are reintroducing a bill that would shield road salt applicators from slip-and-fall lawsuits if they are trained on salting practices that also safeguard water quality. —Madeline Heim, jsonline.com, 12 Feb. 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)