apply

verb

ap·​ply ə-ˈplī How to pronounce apply (audio)
applied; applying

transitive verb

1
a
: to put to use especially for some practical purpose
He applies pressure to get what he wants.
b
: to bring into action
apply the brakes
c
: to lay or spread on
apply varnish
d
: to put into operation or effect
apply a law
2
: to employ diligently or with close attention
You should apply yourself to your work.

intransitive verb

1
: to have relevance or a valid connection
This rule applies to freshmen only.
2
: to make an appeal or request especially in the form of a written application
apply for a job
applier noun

Examples of apply in a Sentence

For further information, apply to the address below. I applied in writing to several different companies. You must have a high school diploma for this job. High school dropouts need not apply. After applying a thin layer of paint to the wall and letting it dry, apply another coat. We applied the ointment to the cut. I washed my face and applied fresh makeup. Fertilizer was applied to the lawn every two weeks.
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.
If the individual is a non-resident, non-citizen of the U.S., the federal estate tax applies only to assets situated or deemed to be situated within the U.S. (for example, U.S. real property or stock in a U.S. corporation). Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025 The reports indicate 20 people have applied with the city for up to $7,000 in emergency rental assistance for new apartments, and 16 have met the eligibility requirements. Michael L. Hyman, Miami Herald, 7 June 2025 Norton includes similar performance tune-up features as well as a startup program manager, and both include the ability to find and apply missing security patches. PC Magazine, 7 June 2025 The elite wildland firefighters are tasked with applying their tactical knowledge to tamp down the biggest fires in the state. Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for apply

Word History

Etymology

Middle English aplien, applien "to join, combine, use for a certain purpose, put to use (an expression, word), strive (to do something)," borrowed from Anglo-French aplier, applier "to put to use or operation, attach to oneself, conform, bend" (continental Middle French apploier, applier "to employ, put to use"), going back to Latin applicāre "to bring into contact (with), situate near, bring to bear (on), make applicable or relevant (to)," from ap- ap- entry 1 + -plicāre "to fold, bend" — more at ply entry 3

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of apply was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Apply.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apply. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

apply

verb
ap·​ply ə-ˈplī How to pronounce apply (audio)
applied; applying
1
a
: to put to use
apply knowledge
b
: to lay or spread on
apply a coat of paint
c
: to place in contact
apply heat
d
: to put into operation or effect
apply a law
2
: to give one's full attention
applied myself to the work
3
: to have relation or a connection
this law applies to everyone
4
: to make an application : make a request
apply for a job
applier noun

Medical Definition

apply

transitive verb
ap·​ply ə-ˈplī How to pronounce apply (audio)
applied; applying
: to lay or spread on
apply antiseptic to a cut

More from Merriam-Webster on apply

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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