applied; applying
1
a
: to put to use especially for some practical purpose
He applies pressure to get what he wants.
b
: to bring into action
apply the brakes
c
: to lay or spread on
apply varnish
d
: to put into operation or effect
apply a law
2
: to employ diligently or with close attention
You should apply yourself to your work.
1
: to have relevance or a valid connection
This rule applies to freshmen only.
2
: to make an appeal or request especially in the form of a written application
apply for a job
Examples of apply in a Sentence
For further information, apply to the address below.
I applied in writing to several different companies.
You must have a high school diploma for this job. High school dropouts need not apply.
After applying a thin layer of paint to the wall and letting it dry, apply another coat.
We applied the ointment to the cut.
I washed my face and applied fresh makeup.
Fertilizer was applied to the lawn every two weeks.
Recent Examples on the Web
Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 2 cups of hydrogen peroxide and use a white cloth to apply it to the stain and blot gently.
—
Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 25 Oct. 2025
The Power Play multiplier does not apply to prizes won in the Double Play drawing.
—Tanya Wildt, Freep.com, 25 Oct. 2025
The range of possibilities allows the velvet effect to be applied in many other ways—from a subtle version, perhaps only on the tip of the classic French manicure, to more daring designs with abstract nail art, gradients, or metallic chrome details.
—Laura Solla, Glamour, 25 Oct. 2025
Farmland owners and leasers, and irrigation districts can apply for funding to pay for novel technologies and regenerative agriculture practices for a two-year period.
—Clara Migoya, AZCentral.com, 25 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for apply
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show current usage.
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Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 25 Oct. 2025
The Power Play multiplier does not apply to prizes won in the Double Play drawing.
—Tanya Wildt, Freep.com, 25 Oct. 2025
The range of possibilities allows the velvet effect to be applied in many other ways—from a subtle version, perhaps only on the tip of the classic French manicure, to more daring designs with abstract nail art, gradients, or metallic chrome details.
—Laura Solla, Glamour, 25 Oct. 2025
Farmland owners and leasers, and irrigation districts can apply for funding to pay for novel technologies and regenerative agriculture practices for a two-year period.
—Clara Migoya, AZCentral.com, 25 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for apply
Cite this Entry
“Apply.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apply. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
apply
verb
ap·ply
ə-ˈplī 
applied; applying
1
a
: to put to use
apply knowledge
b
: to lay or spread on
apply a coat of paint
c
: to place in contact
apply heat
d
: to put into operation or effect
apply a law
2
: to give one's full attention
applied myself to the work
3
: to have relation or a connection
this law applies to everyone
4
: to make an application : make a request
apply for a job
Medical Definition
apply
transitive verb
ap·ply
ə-ˈplī
applied; applying
: to lay or spread on
apply antiseptic to a cut
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