'apology' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'apologia,' where 'apo-' meant 'away' and 'logos' meant 'speech.'

'apologia' transformed into the Latin word 'apologia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'apology' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a speech in defense,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an expression of regret.'