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

“I’ve been apologetic when I didn’t need to be and I’ve made compromises just to be included, and those things don’t feel anymore like they belong in my one singular life that I have to live,” she says.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From BBC

Related Words

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