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

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1733, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of apologetics was circa 1733

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Cite this Entry

“Apologetics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apologetics. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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