Apply Definition & Meaning
apply
- verb
- put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose; "use your head!"; "we only use Spanish at home"; "I can't use this tool"; "Apply a magnetic field here"; "This thinking was applied to many projects"; "How do you utilize this tool?"; "I apply this rule to get good results"; "use the plastic bags to store the food"; "He doesn't know how to use a computer"
- be pertinent or relevant or applicable; "The same laws apply to you!"; "This theory holds for all irrational numbers"; "The same rules go for everyone"
- ask (for something); "He applied for a leave of absence"; "She applied for college"; "apply for a job"
- apply to a surface; "She applied paint to the back of the house"; "Put on make-up!"
- be applicable to; as to an analysis; "This theory lends itself well to our new data"
- give or convey physically; "She gave him First Aid"; "I gave him a punch in the nose"
- avail oneself to; "apply a principle"; "practice a religion"; "use care when going down the stairs"; "use your common sense"; "practice non-violent resistance"
- ensure observance of laws and rules; "Apply the rules to everyone"
- refer (a word or name) to a person or thing; "He applied this racial slur to me!"
- apply oneself to; "Please apply yourself to your homework"
"Apply" in song lyrics
See how apply is used in real songs:
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"I stay fly, the rules still apply"
7L & Esoteric f/ Count Bass D, J-Live — Rules of Engagament -
"But bones'll crack eyes when the pleasures apply"
Tha Beggas — Extreme Pleasures -
"So all take heed, I also will apply"
Beretta 9 f/ Midaz — Who Cares
Words that rhyme with apply
Usage tips for "apply"
Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "apply" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for apply to find words that pair well.
Use "apply" in a verse
Now that you know what "apply" means, try using it in your own lyrics:
Generate a verse