View synonyms for apologetic

apologetic

[ uh-pol-uh-jet-ik ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

containing an apology or excuse for a fault, failure, insult, injury, etc.:
An apologetic letter to his creditors explained the delay.
defending by speech or writing.
willing or eager to apologize.
sorry; regretful.

apologetic

/ əˌpɒləˈdʒɛtɪk /

adjective

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

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Derived Forms

aˌpoloˈgetically, adverb

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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

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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

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Example Sentences

His defiant words are a marked change from his apologetic tone earlier this month over his short-lived martial law declaration.

From BBC

Within the week, the president has morphed from being contrite and apologetic, hoping to avoid impeachment, to brazenly defiant, vowing to fight on as the net closed in on him.

From BBC

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