apologize

[ uh-pol-uh-jahyz ]

verb (used without object)

, a·pol·o·gized, a·pol·o·giz·ing.

1. to offer an apology or excuse for some fault, insult, failure, or injury:

   He apologized for accusing her falsely.

2. to make a formal defense in speech or writing.

apologize

/ əˈpɒləˌdʒaɪz /

verb

1. to express or make an apology; acknowledge failings or faults
2. to make a formal defence in speech or writing

Derived Forms

• aˈpoloˌgizer, noun

Other Words From

• a·polo·gizer noun
• rea·polo·gize verb (used with object) reapologized reapologizing
• una·polo·gizing noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of apologize¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; apolog(y) + -ize

Example Sentences

‘But you didn’t apologize to her, at least according to folks that we’ve talked to.’

From Salon

‘Did you ever apologize to her?’

From Salon

The quote led to a rare public rebuke of a political candidate by a police chief and calls for Jurado to quit the race or apologize.

From Los Angeles Times

“And if that offended any of our military and veterans, I apologize to you because that was never my intent. I’m a product of the military, a proud lover of the military and a proud lover of all those who served before and now and will serve in the future.”

From Los Angeles Times

Musk did not apologize or mention making any cast members cry.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• atone
• confess
• retract
• withdraw