applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈa-plə-ˌkā-tər 

: one that applies

specifically : a device for applying a substance (such as medicine or polish)

Examples of applicator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The iconic Luminous Silk Foundation inspires it and uses a precision tip applicator to apply one dot to the apples of the cheeks and blend using fingertips or brush. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 23 Oct. 2024

The target dose applicator delivers the perfect amount of product, making all those nooks and crannies easy to camouflage. —Carrie Honaker, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2024

This pitch-black formula glides across lids without skipping, smudging, or smearing, and its ultra-fine applicator makes precision a total breeze. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 9 Oct. 2024

The applicator wand is what made the Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer our pick for the weed killer that’s easiest to use. —Kate Puhala, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Sep. 2024

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]") + -or entry 1 — more at apply

First Known Use

1659, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər 

: a device for applying a substance (as medicine or polish)

Medical Definition

applicator

noun

ap·​pli·​ca·​tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər 

: one that applies

specifically : a device for applying a substance (as medicine)