app

¹

[ ap ]

noun

1. Digital Technology. a software application, often a small, specialized program for mobile devices:

   You’ll find numerous free photo editing apps in the app store on your smartphone.

   The word processing app that comes with the laptop isn’t adequate for our publishing needs.

2. an application; a form to be filled out by an applicant:

   I'm working on my college apps.

app

²

[ ap ]

noun

1. Informal. an appetizer served before a meal.

app.

³

abbreviation for

1. apparatus.
2. apparent.
3. appendix.
4. applied.
5. appointed.
6. approved.
7. approximate.

app

/ æp /

noun

1. See application program
   informal.
   computing short for application program

Word History and Origins

Origin of app¹

First recorded in 1985–90; shortening of application ( def )

Origin of app²

By shortening

Example Sentences

Just six months ago, he was having casual sex with men he met on dating apps.

From Washington Post

That’s the enterprise value of Rover, an app that connects pet owners with dog walkers and groomers, after it goes public via a special purpose acquisition company, or SPAC, according to a statement announcing the company’s plans.

From Quartz

So it’s a bit ironic that Clubhouse, the buzzy new app that essentially facilitates conference calls between internet strangers, is now exploding in popularity.

From Quartz

The fintech’s growing valuation is another sign that investors think the trading app is bulletproof to everything from handwringing over its business model to technology outages and fines.

From Quartz

You as a citizen just download the app and consent that the data be shared.

From MIT Technology Review

In 2011 LGBT media outlet Queerty took the app to task for allegedly deleting accounts that made reference to being trans.

From The Daily Beast

Since then, the app has gained over 165,000 users in more than 70 countries, according to its founder.

From The Daily Beast

I actually downloaded the app last summer and was embarrassed because none of my friends seemed to use it.

From The Daily Beast

JSwipe is neither the first nor the most recent Jewish dating app.

From The Daily Beast

And some dresses can be totally altered from an app on your phone.

From The Daily Beast

Ef you had a dozen lawyers I'd have to app'int him jest the same.

From Project Gutenberg

He c'n jest wrap 'em round his finger an' make 'em app'int anybody he likes.

From Project Gutenberg

Judge Knowles was business head of this—this old cats' home afore he app'inted Cap'n Kendrick to the job, and you know that.

From Project Gutenberg

Appendix I: Method of determining the effect of the rate of application of load on the strength of timber, pp. 325-327; App.

From Project Gutenberg

If you want to stay a spell, until an assistant's app'inted, I'll undertake to be responsible for your keep.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• program
• software