apology

[uh-pol-uh-jee]

noun

plural

apologies 

1. a written or spoken expression of one's regret, remorse, or sorrow for having insulted, failed, injured, or wronged another.

   He demanded an apology from me for calling him a crook.

2. a defense, excuse, or justification in speech or writing, as for a cause or doctrine.

   Synonyms: vindication

3. (initial capital letter, italics),  a dialogue by Plato, centering on Socrates' defense before the tribunal that condemned him to death.

4. an inferior specimen or substitute; makeshift.

   The tramp wore a sad apology for a hat.

apology

/ əˈpɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. an oral or written expression of regret or contrition for a fault or failing

2. a poor substitute or offering

3. another word for apologia

Other Word Forms

• reapology noun
• superapology noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of apology¹

First recorded in 1500–50; earlier apologie, late Middle English (from Middle French ), from Late Latin apologia, from Greek apología, “speech in self-defense; defense,” apologia

Word History and Origins

Origin of apology¹

C16: from Old French apologie, from Late Latin apologia, from Greek: a verbal defence, from _apo- + logos speech

Synonym Study

See excuse.

Example Sentences

After receiving her apology from the university and a pledge to protect her academic freedom, she is not currently pursuing her legal action.

Read more on BBC

It said the settlement did not include a statement of apology.

Read more on BBC

The Brazilian made a public apology to the fans and the club, without mentioning his coach, although Alonso said the matter was resolved.

Read more on Barron's

With apologies to Ms. Field, this descent has done far more to birth the “furious minds” of the New Right than the speculations of philosophers and intellectuals.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The apology comes after U.S.-Canada trade tensions have blown up in recent days.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• acknowledgment 
• admission 
• amends 
• atonement 
• concession 
• confession 
• excuse 
• explanation 
• justification 
• plea 
• redress 
• reparation