1 a : a formal and usually written request for something (such as a job, admission to a school, a loan, etc.) [count] ▪ We've made an application for certification. [=we have applied to be certified] ▪ Our loan application has been approved/denied. ▪ Anyone interested in running for office must file/submit an application by August 1st. [noncount] ▪ If you'd like to be considered for the job, please send us a letter of application that gives your experience and qualifications.
b [count] : a document that is used to make a formal request for something
▪ Please fill out this application. 2 : the act of applying something: such as a : the act of putting something on a surface, a part of the body, etc. [noncount] ▪ The application of heat often helps sore muscles. ▪ I prefer using the lotion because of its ease of application. [=because it is easy to apply] ▪ Repeated application of fertilizer will help the grass become green and healthy. [count] ▪ Repeated applications of fertilizer will help the grass become green and healthy. ▪ The cut should be treated with a generous/liberal application of ointment.
b : the use of an idea, method, law, etc., in a particular situation or for a particular purpose [noncount] ▪ Strict application of the rules is necessary in this case. ▪ the application of new information ▪ learning about the creative application [=use] of new technology [count] ▪ He teaches his students about the practical applications [=uses] of technology. ▪ I think it is a fair application of the law. ▪ applications of science to everyday life
c [noncount] : the use of a word, name, etc., to describe someone or something
▪ the application of the term “baby boomer” to people who were born right after World War II 3 : the ability to be used for practical purposes [noncount] ▪ The technique has wide/limited application. [=it can/cannot be used for a large number of practical purposes] [count] ▪ The tool has a number of applications. = The tool has a wide range of applications. 4 [count] computers : a computer program that performs a particular task (such as word processing)
▪ How many applications is your computer currently running? ▪ applications software —called also (chiefly US, informal) app 5 [noncount] formal : effort made to work hard in order to complete something successfully
▪ She succeeded because of application and intelligence.