English · Word Candidate

apology

/əˈpɒl.ə.d͡ʒi/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: apologies

Sense 1

Meaning · English

An expression of remorse or regret for having said or done something that harmed another: an instance of apologizing (saying that one is sorry).

Noun

What he said really hurt my feelings, but his apology sounded so sincere that I couldn't help but forgive him.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

A formal justification, defence.

Noun

the Apology of Socrates

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “apology” mean?

An expression of remorse or regret for having said or done something that harmed another: an instance of apologizing (saying that one is sorry).

Is “apology” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.