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

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

In 2017, the group had revealed plans for a center dedicated to artists, live performances and the applied arts, to be located inside the former Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires next to the Fondation Louis Vuitton. —Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 20 Nov. 2025

Puttur, who is studying aeronautical engineering and applied mathematics, also has a deep interest in linguistics and is proficient in four languages. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 16 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