apply

[uh-plahy]

verb (used with object)

applied, applying 

1. to make use of as relevant, suitable, or pertinent.

   to apply a theory to a problem.

2. to put to use, especially for a particular purpose.

   to apply pressure to open a door.

3. to bring into action; use; employ.

   He applied the brakes and skidded to a stop.

   Synonyms: utilize

4. to use a label or other designation.

   Don't apply any such term to me.

5. to use for or assign to a specific purpose.

   He applied a portion of his salary each week to savings.

   Synonyms: dedicate, assign, allot, appropriate

6. to put into effect.

   They applied the rules to new members only.

7. to devote or employ diligently or with close attention.

   to apply one's mind to a problem;

   to apply oneself to a task.

8. to place in contact with; lay or spread on.

   to apply paint to a wall;

   to apply a bandage to a wound.

9. to bring into physical contact with or close proximity to.

   to apply a match to gunpowder.

10. to credit to, as an account.

    to apply $10 to his account at the store.

verb (used without object)

applied, applying 

1. to be pertinent, suitable, or relevant.

   The argument applies to the case.

   The theory doesn't apply.

2. to make an application or request; ask.

   to apply for a job;

   to apply for a raise.

   Synonyms: entreat, sue, petition

3. to lay or spread on.

   The plastic coating is easy to apply on any surface.

4. to be placed or remain in contact.

   This paint doesn't apply very easily.

apply

/ əˈplaɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to put to practical use; utilize; employ

2. (intr) to be relevant, useful, or appropriate

3. (tr) to cause to come into contact with; put onto

4. to put in an application or request

5. to devote (oneself, one's efforts) with diligence

6. (tr) to bring into operation or use

   the police only applied the law to aliens

7. (tr) to refer (a word, epithet, etc) to a person or thing

Other Word Forms

• appliable adjective
• appliableness noun
• appliably adverb
• applier noun
• preapply verb (used with object)
• reapply verb
• unappliable adjective
• unappliably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of apply¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English ap(p)lien, from Anglo-French, Old French ap(p)lier, from Latin applicāre, equivalent to ap- ap- ¹ ( def. ) + plicāre “to fold”; ply ² ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of apply¹

C14: from Old French aplier, from Latin applicāre to attach to

Example Sentences

Citizens of another seven countries were blocked from permanently immigrating to the U.S., or for applying for tourist or student visas.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Lakanwal settled in Bellingham, Wash., where he applied for asylum, which was granted in April, according to officials.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

In 2013, Lu registered a new company in the Seychelles, an African archipelago in the Indian Ocean, to apply for IP addresses from Africa’s internet registry, called the African Network Information Centre, or Afrinic.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Many neurological and psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and some forms of brain injury, can make it difficult for people to apply existing skills in new situations.

Read more on Science Daily

The UK had wanted an enhanced deal in place before Sunday, the deadline for EU countries to apply to take part in the first funding round.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• administer 
• employ 
• exercise 
• handle 
• implement 
• practice