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.
Brenda McAleer, dean of the College of Professional Studies at the University of Maine at Augusta — which is preparing to offer a bachelor’s of applied public administration — said the degrees were designed for adults who already have some work experience or have taken some college courses. Emilia Otte, Hartford Courant, 4 June 2026 The system delivers millimeter-level force-control accuracy, automatically adjusting applied force according to task requirements and material characteristics. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 2 June 2026 After finishing her schooling at Exarch Joseph I in Lovech, Karabash earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Veliko Tarnovo in applied linguistics with English and French. Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 May 2026 Meanwhile, New York’s share of national creative jobs has declined across key industries, including film and television, advertising, music production, performing arts, and applied design. Lola W. Brabham, New York Daily News, 6 May 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 7 Jun. 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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