Entry Word: excuse

Function: noun

Meaning: an explanation that frees one from fault or blame <a whole evening of must-see TV is no excuse for not having your homework done>

Synonyms alibi, defense, justification, plea, reason

Related Words guise, pretense (or pretence), pretext, rationale, rationalization; cop-out, out; acknowledgment (also acknowledgement), apology, atonement, confession