applicant

noun

ap·​pli·​cant ˈa-pli-kənt How to pronounce applicant (audio)
: one who applies
a job applicant

Examples of applicant in a Sentence

We interviewed 30 qualified applicants for the job. have numerous applicants for the job
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Many organizations don’t post open roles on an actual job board, relying on word-of-mouth to send them their best job applicants instead. Rebecca Fraser-Thill, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025 In December, a first-come, first-serve approach to selecting applicants overwhelmed the system, with the online application program closing after 45 minutes. Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2025 Unlike the traditional government grants process, in which applicants set project scope, most CHIPS negotiations involved pushing applicants to build more, which paid off handsomely when companies such as TSMC agreed to construct additional fabs in the United States. Nikita Lalwani, Foreign Affairs, 22 May 2025 Commissioners also heard from the applicant, Shingle Creek Co-Owners LLC, and its team of lawyers and engineers during the nearly two-hour discussion. Natalia Jaramillo, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for applicant

Word History

Etymology

applicate "to apply, put to use" (borrowed from Latin applicātus, past participle of applicāre "to bring into contact [with], situate near, bring to bear [on]") + -ant entry 1 — more at apply

First Known Use

circa 1742, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of applicant was circa 1742

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Applicant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/applicant. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

applicant

noun
ap·​pli·​cant ˈap-li-kənt How to pronounce applicant (audio)
: one who applies for something
an applicant for work

More from Merriam-Webster on applicant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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