apologetics

noun

apol·​o·​get·​ics ə-ˌpä-lə-ˈje-tiks How to pronounce apologetics (audio)
plural in form but singular or plural in construction
1
: systematic argumentative discourse (see discourse entry 1 sense 2a) in defense (as of a doctrine)
2
: a branch of theology devoted to the defense of the divine origin and authority of Christianity

Examples of apologetics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Because the word apologetics equally means a doctrine. — Craig Lindsey, VIBE.com, 3 Sep. 2019 So anyway, reading McLeroy's apologetics in the op-ed is astounding. — Phil Plait, Discover Magazine, 6 Jan. 2011

Word History

Etymology

apologet(ic) entry 1 or apologet(ic) entry 2 + -ics

First Known Use

circa 1733, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of apologetics was circa 1733

Rhymes for apologetics

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Browse Nearby Words

apologetical
apologetics
apologia
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Cite this Entry

“Apologetics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apologetics. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on apologetics

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about apologetics

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