<p><strong>Noun (plural):</strong></p><ul><li>a written or spoken expression of one's regret, remorse, or sorrow for having insulted, failed, injured, or wronged another</li><li>a defense, excuse, or justification in speech or writing, as for a cause or doctrine</li><li>an inferior specimen or substitute; makeshift</li></ul><p><strong>Synonyms:</strong></p><ul><li>vindication</li></ul>