'apologize' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'apologia' (ἀπολογία), where 'apo-' meant 'away' and 'logos' meant 'speech'.

'apologize' changed from the Late Latin/Medieval Latin word 'apologizare' (itself from Greek 'apologia') and passed into English as 'apologize' (with alternative British spelling 'apologise').

Initially, it meant 'a speech in defense', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to express regret or say sorry'.