apology

noun

1. 1

   An expression of remorse or regret for having said or done something that harmed another: an instance of apologizing (saying that one is sorry).

   “The CEO made a public apology for the scandal, and promised full cooperation with the authorities.”

2. 2

   A formal justification, defence.

   “The Apology of Socrates.”

3. 3

   Anything provided as a substitute; a makeshift.

   “a poor apology for a hotel room”