# apologist

/əˈpɑɫədʒəst/ (US) · /ɐpˈɒlədʒˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/apologist
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

someone who tries to defend or explain a person, group, or idea that many people think is bad or wrong. You use this word for people who make excuses for things that are usually criticized.

For teachers: a person who defends or justifies a person, group, or idea that is widely regarded as morally or politically objectionable. Often carries a pejorative tone when used to describe those defending controversial historical figures or ideologies.

## Examples

- He is a well-known apologist for the old political party.
- The author was criticized as an apologist for the regime, as his book focused on the state's achievements rather than its human rights abuses.
- While some scholars view the philosopher as a neutral observer, others argue he was a dedicated apologist for the very system he claimed to study objectively.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.