{ A*pol`o*get"ic (&?;), A*pol`o*get"ic*al (&?;), } a. [Gr. &?;, fr. &?; to speak in defense of; &?; from + &?; speech, &?; to say, to speak. See Logic.] Defending by words or arguments; said or written in defense, or by way of apology; regretfully excusing; as, an apologetic essay. "To speak in a subdued and apologetic tone." Macaulay.
A*pol`o*get"ic*al*ly, adv. By way of apology.
A*pol`o*get"ics (&?;), n. That branch of theology which defends the Holy Scriptures, and sets forth the evidence of their divine authority.
A*pol"o*gist (&?;), n. [Cf. F. apologiste.] One who makes an apology; one who speaks or writes in defense of a faith, a cause, or an institution; especially, one who argues in defense of Christianity.
A*pol"o*gize (&?;), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Apologized (&?;); p. pr. & vb. n. Apologizing.] [Cf. F. apologiser.] 1. To make an apology or defense. Dr. H. More.
2. To make an apology or excuse; to make acknowledgment of some fault or offense, with expression of regret for it, by way of amends; -- with for; as, my correspondent apologized for not answering my letter.
To apologize for his insolent language.
Froude.