1. To make a formal request or petition, usually in writing, to a court officer, board, or company, for the granting of some favor, or of some rule or order, which is within his or their power or discretion. For example, to apply for an- injunction, for a pardon, for a policy of insurance. 2. To use or employ for a particular purpose; to appropriate and devote to a particular use, object, demand, or subject matter. Thus, to apply payments to the reduction of interest 3. To put, use, or refer, as suitable or relative; to co ordinate language with a particular subject matter; as to apply the words of a statute to a particular state of facts.