v.
Pronunciation: ə - ' pl ī
Function: verb
Inflected Form: ap · plied ; ap · ply · ing
Etymology: Middle English applien, from Anglo-French aplier, from Latin applicare, from ad- + plicare to fold ― more at PLY
Date: 14th century
transitive verb
1 a : to put to use especially for some practical purpose < 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 <should apply yourself to your work>
intransitive verb
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>
– ap · pli · er \ - ' pl ī (- ə )r \ noun