apologist
apologist Lexical Profile
apologist Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person who offers an argument in defense of something controversial, such as a political ideology, institution, or religious doctrine.
"Critics accused the historian of acting as an apologist for the former colonial administration."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse an "apologist" with someone who apologizes or expresses regret; an apologist is someone who argues in defense of a controversial belief, institution, or doctrine (from Greek "apologia", meaning a formal defense). In modern secular contexts, it often carries a slightly pejorative connotation when applied to defenders of unpopular regimes or policies.
• Rhymes for apologist
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the mid-17th century from French "apologiste", from Late Latin "apologista", ultimately from Ancient Greek "apologizesthai" (to speak in defense of), from "apologia" (a speech in defense).