əˈplaɪ v. (-ies, -ied) 1 intr. (often foll. by
for,
to, or to + infin.)
make a
formal request for
something to be
done,
given, etc. (apply for a job; apply for
help to
the governors;
applied to be
sent overseas). 2 intr.
have relevance (does
not apply in
this case). 3 tr. a make
use of as
relevant or
suitable;
employ (apply the rules). b
operate (apply the handbrake). 4 tr. (often foll. by to) a put or
spread on (applied the
ointment to the cut). b
administer (applied the
remedy; applied
common sense to the problem). 5 refl. (often foll. by to)
devote oneself (applied
myself to the task). øøapplier n. [ME f. OF aplier f. L applicare fold,
fasten to]