apply

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To make a formal request for something such as a job or a place.

   She applied for a job at the local bank.

2. 2
   verb

   To be relevant or true in a particular situation.

   These rules apply to everyone in the building.

3. 3
   verb

   To use something in a practical way for a purpose.

   He applied his knowledge to solve the problem.

4. 4
   verb

   To put or spread a substance onto a surface.

   Apply the cream gently to your face.

5. 5
   verb

   To give all your effort and attention to a task.

   They were told to apply themselves to their homework.

Common collocations

• apply a fix Verb + noun
• apply force Verb + noun
• apply ice Verb + noun
• apply pressure Verb + noun
• apply a finish Verb + noun

Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *h₂éd Proto-Italic *ad Proto-Italic *ad- Latin ad- Proto-Indo-European *pel- Proto-Indo-European *pleḱ-der. Latin plicō Latin applicō Old French applierbor. Middle English aplien English apply From Middle English aplien, applien, from Old French applier, (French appliquer), from Latin applicō (“join, fix, or attach to”); from ad + plicō (“fold, twist together”). See applicant, ply.

Topics