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Definition of apologize

apologize

/əˈpɑːlədʒaɪz/
(UK: apologise)
a · pol · o · gize
Adverb:apologetically
•
Adjective:apologetic
•
Past Simple:apologized
•
Past Participle:apologized
•
Present Participle:apologizing
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apologize Lexical Profile

apologize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To express regret or remorse for an offense, fault, or failure.

Example

"She called her colleague to apologize for missing the morning meeting."

2

To make a formal defense or justification in speech or writing for a belief, doctrine, or cause.

Example

"Early Christian writers often sought to apologize for their faith before Roman authorities."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for apologize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for apologize

• Rhymes for apologize

• Nearby Words

apologetic
apologetically
apologist
apologize
apologizer
apology
apoplectic

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the noun 'apology', which comes via Late Latin from Ancient Greek 'apologia' (a speech in defense), formed from 'apo-' (away, off) and 'logos' (speech).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Apologize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/apologize
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