Definition of: apology

(ə·pol′ə·jē) noun plural ·gies
1. A formal acknowledgment, as of error, offense, or incivility.
2. Originally, a justification or defense.
3. A poor substitute. [ <L apologia <Gk. apologia a speech in defense < apo- from + logos speech] Synonyms: acknowledgment, confession, defense, exculpation, excuse, justification, plea, vindication. According to its present meaning, he who offers an apology admits himself, at least technically and seemingly, in the wrong. An excuse for a fault is an attempt at partial justification; as, one alleges haste as an excuse for carelessness. Acknowledgment is neutral, and may be either of fact, duty, obligation, etc., or of error or fault. Confession is a full acknowledgment of wrong, generally of a grave wrong, with or without apology or excuse. Compare CONFESS, DEFENSE. Antonyms: accusation, censure, charge, complaint, condemnation, imputation, injury, insult, offense, wrong.