apologize
verb
Did you know?
Does apologize always mean "to say 'I'm sorry'"?
The verb apologize is a surprisingly recent introduction to the English language when one stops to consider that we have likely been committing deeds which require an apology since time immemorial. Our earliest current record of use comes at the end of the 16th century, in the writing of Thomas Nash:
”….but as the Elephant and the Rinoceros neuer fight but about the best pastures, so will I winne from him his best Patrons, and driue him to confesse himselfe a Conundrum, who now thinks he hath learning inough to proue the saluation of Lucifer; Apologize it for him as many Chutes, Barnesses, or vile riggers, or Fregeuiles as there will.”
The earliest uses of apologize more often meant “to offer an excuse or defense” than “to acknowledge a fault.” The verb came into our language from the noun apology, which similarly had an initial meaning (beginning in the early 16th century) that did not necessarily acknowledge fault (“something said or written in defense or justification of what appears to others to be wrong or of what may be liable to disapprobation”).
Examples of apologize in a Sentence
Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025
Overcoming Michigan Setback Howard apologized to Ohio State fans following a stunning loss to Michigan at the conclusion of the regular season, a mess of a defeat to a bitter rival.
—Tom Layberger, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025
During the sentencing hearing, Simmons apologized to the family of Cecarelli and accepted responsibility for his actions, the DCJ said.
—Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 16 Jan. 2025
Ramirez-Rosa resigned from that leadership post and from his coveted Zoning Committee chair role after apologizing, leading to a power vacuum in council leadership that was not filled until Johnson tapped vice mayor Ald.
—Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 15 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for apologize 
Dictionary Entries Near apologize
Cite this Entry
“Apologize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apologize. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.
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apologize
verb
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