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

This mineral sunscreen has a brush applicator that’s easy to apply to your part and hairline. —Rebecca Shinners, Travel + Leisure, 5 May 2025

These days, there are more options than ever for menstrual products, including many different sized pads, and tampons with different types of applicators. —​wendy Wisner, Parents, 10 Apr. 2025

Wash your brushes and other applicators regularly.4 A Quick Review Wearing makeup regularly has pros and cons. —Sarah Bradley, Health, 16 Apr. 2025

And the super-inclusive shade range is only the tip of the iceberg (end of the applicator?). —Annie Blackman, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025

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)