1650s, "capable of being applied, suitable, appropriate," from Latin stem of apply (v.) + -able. Earlier in this sense was appliable (mid-15c.), and applicable formerly meant "pliable, well-disposed" (1560s).
gave applicable examples to support her argument
apple-seed
applet
apple-tree
appliance
applicability
applicable
applicant
application
applicator
applied
applique
