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applicator

American

[ap-li-kay-ter] / ˈæp lɪˌkeɪ tər /

noun

a simple device, as a rod, spatula, or the like, for applying medication, cosmetics, glue, or any other substance not usually touched with the fingers.

applicator British

/ ˈæplɪˌkeɪtə /

noun

a device, such as a spatula or rod, for applying a medicine, glue, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of applicator

1650–60; applicate ( see applicative) + -or ²

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

applicator

Rather than removing damaged tooth material and placing a filling, a dentist uses a tiny sponge tipped applicator to paint the liquid directly onto the cavity.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 26, 2026

"In the coming weeks, we'll launch applicator training opportunities, and stewardship education to help ensure that growers and applicators have the best experience possible with Stryax herbicide."

From Barron's ● Feb. 7, 2026

Her clinic had developed a painless, “skin booster mix” containing Rejuran, but delivered via a stamp-like applicator.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 14, 2025

As readers twist open their liner applicator, they’ll be reminded of the Wodaabe men who wear kohl to enhance their appearance and attract a partner in a ritual ceremony.

From Seattle Times ● Dec. 8, 2023

I would pass Chloe in our bathroom, stretching out one of her eyes and dabbing it with an applicator.

From "Landscape with Invisible Hand" by M.T. Anderson

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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023