applied

adjective

ap·​plied ə-ˈplīd How to pronounce applied (audio)
Synonyms of appliednext
1
: put to practical use
applied art
especially : applying general principles to solve definite problems
applied sciences
2
: working in an applied science
an applied physicist

Examples of applied in a Sentence

a professor of applied science used some applied psychology to get the teenager to become more responsible
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.
His attorney, Ava Benach, said Vedam hopes to live with a relative in Sacramento and has been offered a spot in Oregon State University’s doctoral program in applied anthropology. Mark Scolforo, Los Angeles Times, 2 Apr. 2026 The combined sensing system allows devices to detect both simple touch and applied pressure, creating a more advanced interaction surface. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 1 Apr. 2026 In this arrangement, liberal arts education is increasingly repositioned around technical adaptation, workforce responsiveness, and industry-facing forms of applied knowledge. Dr. Timothy Scott, Hartford Courant, 31 Mar. 2026 Scott received her master's in leadership from Belhaven University and has a bachelor's in applied psychology from Christian Brothers University. Lucas Finton, Memphis Commercial Appeal, 2 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for applied

Word History

Etymology

from past participle of apply

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of applied was in 1656

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Cite this Entry

“Applied.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/applied. Accessed 12 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

applied

adjective
ap·​plied ə-ˈplīd How to pronounce applied (audio)
: put to use in practice or action
especially : applying general principles to solve problems that have clear limits
applied sciences

Medical Definition

applied

adjective
ap·​plied ə-ˈplīd How to pronounce applied (audio)
: put to practical use
especially : applying general principles to solve definite problems
applied sciences
applied psychology

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