An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics
English-French-Persian

1) General: The act of applying to a particular purpose or use.
2) Computers: A program that performs a specific function for the user, as contrasted with an environment or operating system. Some examples are Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Word, and Adobe Photoshop. The word "application" is used because each program has a specific application for the user.

Verbal noun of → apply.

A software with a specific function, such as a word processor or game. Contrast with operating system software.

→ application; → software.