■ noun ( plural apologies )
1》 a regretful acknowledgement of an offence or failure.
↘( apologies ) a formal expression of regret at being unable to attend a meeting or social function.
2》 ( an ~ for ) a very poor example of.
3》 a justification or defence.
Origin
C16: from Fr. apologie , or via late L. from Gk apologia 'a speech in one's own defence', from apo 'away'+ -logia (see -logy ).