# APP

/ˈæp/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/app
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. mobile software

noun · CEFR A2

a computer program designed for a mobile phone or tablet.

For teachers: a self-contained software package designed for a specific purpose, typically for use on mobile operating systems.

- I downloaded a new app to help me track how much water I drink.
- The developer released a cross-platform app that synchronises user data across mobile devices and desktop browsers in real time.

Usage: Often used as a countable noun; the plural is 'apps'.

### 2. job or school application

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

a formal request for a job, a place at a college, or a loan.

For teachers: an informal clipping of 'application', referring to the formal process or document used to request a position or service.

- He spent all weekend working on his college app and writing his essay.
- The HR department received over two hundred apps for the junior designer role within the first twenty-four hours of the posting.

Teaching tip: While common in spoken English and casual emails, students should use the full word 'application' in formal cover letters.

### 3. food starter

noun · CEFR B2 · American English · Informal

a small dish of food served before the main part of a meal.

For teachers: an informal clipping of 'appetizer', referring to a small course served at the commencement of a meal.

- We ordered a few apps for the table to share while we waited for our steaks.
- The restaurant offers a happy hour special where all apps are half-price between five and seven in the evening.

Teaching tip: This usage is specifically common in North American restaurant culture.

### 4. sports appearance

noun · CEFR C1 · British English · Technical

an instance of a player participating in a professional game.

For teachers: an abbreviation for 'appearance', used in sports statistics to count the number of games a player has participated in.

- The striker has made over 200 apps for the club since joining in 2015.
- Despite his age, the veteran defender remains a regular starter, recently celebrating his five-hundredth professional app.

Usage: Almost exclusively used in written sports journalism and statistical tables.

## Examples

- I downloaded a new app to track my daily steps.
- Most banks now require you to use their mobile app to confirm large online purchases for better security.
- The rapid proliferation of health-monitoring apps has allowed patients to share real-time physiological data with their doctors, though concerns regarding data privacy remain a significant hurdle.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.