'applicant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'applicare,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'plicare' meant 'to fold or bend.'

'applicare' transformed into the French word 'appliquer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'applicant' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to attach or join,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who applies for something.'