applicator
noun
ap·pli·ca·tor ˈa-plə-ˌkā-tər 
: one that applies
specifically : a device for applying a substance (such as medicine or polish)
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web The cushy formula is made with hyaluronic acid and prickly pear oil to deliver hydration that lasts, while its cooling ceramic-tip applicator helps with soothing. 
Allure Editors, Allure, 13 Sep. 2022 The tube also has a smart design; squeeze out some product and gently use its metal applicator tip to smooth onto skin. Catharine Malzahn, Good Housekeeping, 25 May 2022 The buzziest of the bunch included the TikTok-viral Backstage Concealer, with its brush applicator and an illuminating element that Philips points out is ideal for the under-eye. Jessica Ourisman, Harper's BAZAAR, 23 May 2022 This easy-to-use Crest teeth whitening gel with a spatula applicator delivers real lightening effects in a single day, no rinsing necessary. April Franzino, Good Housekeeping, 30 Aug. 2022 Here, the microcurrent device is paired with a hyaluronic acid-infuse conductor gel and applicator brush—basically the ultimate starter kit. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 27 June 2022 After applying the product with a jumbo-sized applicator brush, reviewers were wowed by just how bright their under eyes became. Janine Henni, PEOPLE.com, 15 Apr. 2022 Can to each nail using a disposable eye shadow applicator; wipe off the excess with a fluffy brush. Finish with another Stay Shiny Top Coat layer; cure for 60 seconds. Tiffany Dodson, Harper's BAZAAR, 28 July 2022 Dot the lip gloss-like applicator on apples of cheeks, then tap out and slightly up toward temples with fingers to blend. Jacqueline Saguin, Good Housekeeping, 22 July 2022 See More
Allure Editors, Allure, 13 Sep. 2022 The tube also has a smart design; squeeze out some product and gently use its metal applicator tip to smooth onto skin. Catharine Malzahn, Good Housekeeping, 25 May 2022 The buzziest of the bunch included the TikTok-viral Backstage Concealer, with its brush applicator and an illuminating element that Philips points out is ideal for the under-eye. Jessica Ourisman, Harper's BAZAAR, 23 May 2022 This easy-to-use Crest teeth whitening gel with a spatula applicator delivers real lightening effects in a single day, no rinsing necessary. April Franzino, Good Housekeeping, 30 Aug. 2022 Here, the microcurrent device is paired with a hyaluronic acid-infuse conductor gel and applicator brush—basically the ultimate starter kit. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 27 June 2022 After applying the product with a jumbo-sized applicator brush, reviewers were wowed by just how bright their under eyes became. Janine Henni, PEOPLE.com, 15 Apr. 2022 Can to each nail using a disposable eye shadow applicator; wipe off the excess with a fluffy brush. Finish with another Stay Shiny Top Coat layer; cure for 60 seconds. Tiffany Dodson, Harper's BAZAAR, 28 July 2022 Dot the lip gloss-like applicator on apples of cheeks, then tap out and slightly up toward temples with fingers to blend. Jacqueline Saguin, Good Housekeeping, 22 July 2022 See More Word History
Etymology
applicate "to apply, put to use" (borrowed from Latin applicātus, past participle of applicāre "to bring into contact [with], situate near, bring to bear [on]") + -or entry 1 — more at apply
First Known Use
1659, in the meaning defined above
Kids Definition
applicator
noun
ap·pli·ca·tor ˈa-plə-ˌkā-tər
: a device for applying a substance (as medicine or polish)
Medical Definition
applicator
noun
ap·pli·ca·tor ˈap-lə-ˌkāt-ər
: one that applies
specifically : a device for applying a substance (as medicine)