application

Definition of application

Etymology

From Old French application, from Latin applicātiōnem, accusative singular of applicātiō (“attachment; application, inclination”), from applicō (“join to, attach; apply”).

Pronunciation

• (UK, US) IPA: /ˌæp.ləˈkeɪ.ʃən/, SAMPA: /%{p.l@"keI.S@n/
• Audio (US) ^[?]
• Rhymes: -eɪʃən

Noun

application (plural applications)

1. The thing applied.
   
   He invented a new application by which blood might be stanched. --Johnson.
   
   
2. The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
   
   If a right course . . . be taken with children, there will not be much need of the application of the common rewards and punishments. --John Locke.
   
   
3. The act of directing or referring something to a particular case, to discover or illustrate agreement or disagreement, fitness, or correspondence.
   
   I make the remark, and leave you to make the application.
   
   The application of a theory to a set of data can be challenging.
   
   
4. A verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school.
   
   December 31 is the deadline for MBA applications.
   
   
5. (bureaucracy, law) A petition, entreaty, or other request.
   
   Their application for a deferral of the hearing was granted.