applied

adjective

ap·​plied ə-ˈplīd 

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

Synonyms of applied

• applicable
• useful
• applicative

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

Then, Miller placed his hands around her neck and applied pressure, causing the woman to experience difficulty breathing, a court document states. —Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 5 Jan. 2026

However, traditional universities can still learn from this model by adding more applied learning, embedding essential job skills into their programs, and partnering more closely with industry. —Kelly Droege, The Conversation, 11 Dec. 2025

The partnership will encompass academic programs, training and research in creative and applied technologies. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 22 Nov. 2025

The dials are all black, with the model’s signature arrowhead hands and applied indexes—all glowing with Super-LumiNova. —Carol Besler, Robb Report, 21 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

from past participle of apply

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for applied

• abide
• allied
• aside
• astride
• azide
• backside
• bankside
• bastide
• bayside
• bedside
• belied
• beside

Kids Definition

applied

adjective

ap·​plied ə-ˈplīd 

: 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 

: put to practical use

especially : applying general principles to solve definite problems

applied sciences

applied psychology