: to apply (something, such as a decoration or ornament) to a larger surface : overlay
Examples of appliqué in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
Ankle-skimming hems and trendy jean shorts (decorated with mouth and cigarettes appliques) were part of Caro Editions’ handcrafted collection.—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 14 Aug. 2024 Actress Kerry Washington wore a purple velvet plunging neckline dress with rich light and dark purple appliques cascading down the train of her dress.—Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 7 May 2024 The spring/summer 2024 collections leaned into hyperrealism through the use of artistic prints and appliques on ready-to-wear.—Kendall Becker, refinery29.com, 7 Mar. 2024 Opt for frilly mesh socks that feature bows, pearls, or floral appliques for a whimsical touch to cap off your look.—Victoria Montalti, refinery29.com, 14 June 2024 Floral appliques framed Emporio Armani’s gray jean jacket.—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 11 July 2024 Tesla service will apply adhesion promoter and pressure sensitive tape or replace missing applique as necessary, free of charge.—Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAY, 25 June 2024 Atop their eyes, models wore colorful appliques in shades of pastel blue, purple, and pink, trimmed with curly fabric meant to resemble those blinking doll lashes of yore, a la a '60s Blythe doll all dressed up.—Kara Nesvig, Allure, 2 July 2024 Oscar de la Renta’s Net-a-Porter exclusive white mini with the brand’s signature applique is sure to be a hit amongst brides this season.—Anny Choi, Vogue, 2 July 2024
Verb
An eggplant placemat is appliqued with a border of coral and paired with Leotine's Chopstick monogram for an unforgettable table bathed in color.—Sarah Bray, ELLE Decor, 21 Mar. 2014 Haehlen, who has Down syndrome, smiles wide and twirls her skirt, revealing how intricately it’s appliqued with sequined, floral explosions of color.—Tony Bravo, San Francisco Chronicle, 5 Apr. 2018 The antithesis of timid, Alessandro Michele at Gucci appliques hats, tops and jeans with motifs like bats, cats, bugs and wolves that make Ralph Lauren’s polo pony seem like a meek flea.—Jacob Gallagher, WSJ, 27 Sep. 2017
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'appliqué.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Noun
borrowed from French, past participle of appliquer "to put on, apply," going back to Old French apliquier "to put to use, utilize in a certain way," borrowed from Latin applicāre "to bring into contact (with), situate near, bring to bear (on), make applicable or relevant (to)" — more at apply
Note:
French appliqué is apparently not recorded with the specific sense of the English word in the eighteenth or nineteenth century; see discussion s.v. in the Oxford English Dictionary, third edition.
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