apology
UK: əˈpɒlədʒi | US: əˈpɑːlədʒi
n. a formal expression of regret for a mistake or offense
n. a defense or justification of a belief or action (archaic)
The word "apology" traces back to Greek apologia (ἀπολογία), combining apo ("away/from") and logos ("speech"). Originally, it referred to a formal defense or justification (e.g., Socrates' Apology). Over time, the meaning shifted in English to emphasize regretful acknowledgment of fault, retaining the core idea of "speech to address a wrong."
She offered a sincere apology for her mistake.
The CEO issued a public apology for the company’s oversight.
His speech was more of an apology than a defense.
I owe you an apology for my late reply.
The book includes an apology for the author’s controversial views.