'apologise' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'apologizare', ultimately from Greek 'apologia' meaning 'a speech in defense'.

'apologise' changed from Late Latin 'apologizare' to Old French 'apologiser' and Middle English 'apologisen', and eventually became the modern English 'apologise'.

Initially it meant 'to make a defense (give a formal speech in one's defense)', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to express regret or say sorry'.