App Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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app

[æp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

technology

An application or 'app' is a software program designed to perform a specific function directly for the user or, in some cases, for another application program. Apps typically run on mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets.

Synonyms

application, program, software.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
app	Used commonly in a casual setting, typically refers to a mobile or simplified software application. I just downloaded a new fitness app. There's an app for everything these days.
application	More formal and broad term, can refer to any software program, including complex systems used in professional environments. This application helps manage the company's expenses. Please fill out the application form online.
program	Refers to a set of instructions for a computer. Often used in technical or educational contexts. She's writing a program to analyze climate data. The program crashed due to a bug.
software	A general and formal term for computer programs and applications. Appropriate for professional or technical discussions. The new software update improves performance. They develop software for healthcare systems.

Examples of usage

I downloaded a new app to help me track my daily water intake.
The app allows users to order food directly from their phones.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

An application form, especially for employment.

Synonyms

application form, employment form.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
app	Used informally to refer to a software application, typically one that is used on a mobile device like a smartphone or a tablet. I just downloaded a new fitness app to help me track my workouts. Check out this app for learning new languages; it's really effective.
application form	A form or document used to apply for something, such as a job, university, or other opportunities. It is specifically for gathering personal information and qualifications. Please fill out this application form to be considered for the position. You need to complete the application form before enrolling in the course.
employment form	A specific type of application form used for applying for a job. It usually requests detailed information about your employment history, qualifications, and other relevant details. He spent the afternoon filling out employment forms for several companies. Make sure to double-check your employment form for any errors before submitting it.

Word

Description / Examples

app

Used informally to refer to a software application, typically one that is used on a mobile device like a smartphone or a tablet.

I just downloaded a new fitness app to help me track my workouts.
Check out this app for learning new languages; it's really effective.

application form

A form or document used to apply for something, such as a job, university, or other opportunities. It is specifically for gathering personal information and qualifications.

Please fill out this application form to be considered for the position.
You need to complete the application form before enrolling in the course.

employment form

A specific type of application form used for applying for a job. It usually requests detailed information about your employment history, qualifications, and other relevant details.

He spent the afternoon filling out employment forms for several companies.
Make sure to double-check your employment form for any errors before submitting it.

Examples of usage

I filled out an app for the job at the local supermarket.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

informal

To submit an application form for something, usually a job.

Synonyms

apply, submit an application.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
app	Use this abbreviation when referring to a software application, typically on a mobile device. This word is casual and very commonly used in everyday conversations about technology. I just downloaded a new app for tracking my fitness. There’s an app for everything these days.
apply	This verb is used when you want to make a formal request for something like a job, university admission, or permit. It is also used in the context of putting something onto a surface. He plans to apply for a position at the tech company. Make sure to apply sunscreen before you go out.
submit an application	This phrase is used in formal contexts when talking about the process of completing and sending a formal request for something, like a job or grant. It is more specific than just 'apply'. You must submit an application by the end of the month to be considered. She is preparing to submit an application for the grant.

Word

Description / Examples

app

Use this abbreviation when referring to a software application, typically on a mobile device. This word is casual and very commonly used in everyday conversations about technology.

I just downloaded a new app for tracking my fitness.
There’s an app for everything these days.

apply

This verb is used when you want to make a formal request for something like a job, university admission, or permit. It is also used in the context of putting something onto a surface.

He plans to apply for a position at the tech company.
Make sure to apply sunscreen before you go out.

submit an application

This phrase is used in formal contexts when talking about the process of completing and sending a formal request for something, like a job or grant. It is more specific than just 'apply'.

You must submit an application by the end of the month to be considered.
She is preparing to submit an application for the grant.

Examples of usage

He decided to app for the position at the new company.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

Mobile applications account for a large part of internet use, enabling tasks like shopping, banking, and education.
As of 2023, there are over 2.8 million apps available on the Google Play Store and more than 1.8 million on the Apple App Store.

Pop Culture

Apps have inspired memes and jokes, highlighting how people rely on them for daily tasks and entertainment.
Popular apps often trend on social media, creating vibrant communities around games, productivity, or fitness.

Business

Many businesses develop apps as part of their marketing strategy to engage with customers more effectively.
Successful apps are often monetized through in-app purchases, advertisements, or subscription models.

Psychology

Research shows that the convenience of apps can lead to increased screen time, impacting interpersonal relationships.
Certain apps are designed to promote mental well-being by encouraging mindfulness, relaxation, or social connections.

Origin of 'app'

Main points about word origin

Originally, the short form 'app' emerged in the 1980s when referring to software applications.
The term became popular with the rise of smartphones, particularly with Apple's App Store launch in 2008.

The term 'app' is a shortened form of the word 'application', which has been used in the context of computing since the mid-20th century. The rise of mobile devices, especially smartphones, popularized the use of the term 'app' to refer to software programs designed for these devices. The Apple App Store, launched in 2008, played a significant role in the mainstream adoption of mobile apps. Today, apps have become an integral part of everyday life, offering a wide range of functionalities and services.