n.
Function: noun
1 a justifying explanation of a fault or defect FF1C; what's your excuse for being late FF1E;
Synonyms: alibi, plea, pretex, ||right, compare APOLOGY 1, 2
Related Words: defense; explanation, justification, rationalization; reason
2
Synonyms: APOLOGY 2, regrets
3 an inferior example of a specified kind FF1C; this heap is a sorry excuse for a car FF1E;
Synonyms: apology
Related Words: makeshift, shift, stopgap, substitute
Idioms: a sorry specimen
Contrasted Words: nonpareil, paragon; gem, jewel, treasure