Expressing or showing regret or remorse for having done something wrong or for causing a problem. She gave him an apologetic smile after accidentally bumping into him.
Offering or expressing an apology. His apologetic tone made it clear that he was truly sorry for the misunderstanding.
Defending or justifying something, often in a way that shows regret or acknowledgment of its faults. The spokesperson's apologetic statement tried to justify the company's recent actions.
Relating to or characteristic of the formal defense of a belief, doctrine, or theory, especially in theology or philosophy. The book provides an apologetic perspective on environmental ethics.