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

1. apparatus.

2. apparent.

3. appendix.

4. applied.

5. appointed.

6. approved.

7. approximate.

app

/ æp /

noun

1. 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

Those programs include setting up hotlines, wellness apps and support groups and training more staff who can support and screen children.

From Los Angeles Times

One video taken by local activists and posted on the messaging app Telegram shows the camera lingering over bloodied corpses lined side-by-side on the ground.

From Los Angeles Times

Hundreds of Palestinians flooded my social media accounts and messaging apps with questions like: "Has the war ended?" and "Is this a dream or reality?"

From BBC

Asked if he had any health concerns regarding air quality, he said he checked a local agency air-quality app before stepping outdoors.

From Los Angeles Times

The new law does not apply to other types of gig workers, including those who deliver food through apps like DoorDash.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• program 
• software