APPLY meaning: 1. to request something, usually officially, especially in writing or by sending in a form: 2…. Learn more. APPLY definition: 1. to request something, usually officially, especially in writing or by sending in a form: 2…. Learn more. APPLY definition: to make use of as relevant, suitable, or pertinent. See examples of apply used in a sentence. Apply means to put on a surface, like to apply makeup to your face before work. Apply also means to ask in a formal way. Long before you applied the makeup, you had to apply for the job. apply 1. request formally If you apply to have something or apply for something, you write asking formally to be allowed to have it or do it. I've applied for another job. Sally and Jack applied to adopt another child. The meaning of APPLY is to put to use especially for some practical purpose. How to use apply in a sentence. Find 172 different ways to say APPLY, along with antonyms, related words, and example sentences at Thesaurus.com.