app

¹ American  

[ap] / æp /

noun

1. Informal. an appetizer served before a meal.

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app ² American  

[ap] / æp /

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.

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app. ³ American  

abbreviation

1. apparatus.

2. apparent.

3. appendix.

4. applied.

5. appointed.

6. approved.

7. approximate.

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app British  

/ æp /

noun

1. informal computing short for application program

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Etymology

Origin of app¹

By shortening

Origin of app¹

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

Example Sentences

A delivery worker takes orders on the app.

From The Wall Street Journal

Young singles, frustrated by their options, are delegating control of dating apps like Tinder and Hinge to their parents.

From The Wall Street Journal

Creators — many of whom are based in Southern California — rely on the app as a key source of income, while businesses and brands turn to the platform and its influencers to promote their products.

From Los Angeles Times

Sunday using location data from his cellphone, along with other electronic devices, app footprints and a network of cameras.

From Los Angeles Times

Keep up to date with the forecast with the BBC Weather website and BBC Weather app to help you plan your journey.

From BBC

Related Words

• program
• software