apologetic

[ uh-pol-uh-jet-ik ]

adjective

1. containing an apology or excuse for a fault, failure, insult, injury, etc.:

   An apologetic letter to his creditors explained the delay.

2. defending by speech or writing.
3. willing or eager to apologize.
4. sorry; regretful.

apologetic

/ əˌpɒləˈdʒɛtɪk /

adjective

1. expressing or anxious to make apology; contrite
2. protecting or defending in speech or writing

Derived Forms

• aˌpoloˈgetically, adverb

Other Words From

• a·pol·o·get·i·cal·ly adverb
• non·a·pol·o·get·ic adjective
• non·a·pol·o·get·i·cal adjective
• non·a·pol·o·get·i·cal·ly adverb
• pseu·do·a·pol·o·get·ic adjective
• pseu·do·a·pol·o·get·i·cal·ly adverb
• qua·si-a·pol·o·get·ic adjective
• qua·si-a·pol·o·get·i·cal·ly adverb
• un·a·pol·o·get·ic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of apologetic¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English apologetik “a formal defense,” from Middle French or directly from Late Latin apologēticus “written defense, defensive,” Greek apologētikós “fit for defense,” equivalent to apologē- (variant stem of apologeîsthai “to speak in defense”; apologia ) + -tikos -tic

Example Sentences

She recalled that Carson would feel apologetic for his behavior but would never change.

From Salon

It allowed me to bring a vulnerable, feminine charm that is organic, and humble and apologetic.

From Salon

“I think it’s OK to break some rules in a war,” he says with an apologetic smile.

From BBC

He wakes up in hospital with an apologetic Almut by his side.

From BBC

She said he was apologetic to the victims, and for the harm he had caused to them.

From BBC

Related Words

• conciliatory
• contrite
• regretful
• remorseful
• repentant
• sorry