(v) defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning, Syn. rationalize, justify, rationalise, apologise, excuse, Example:rationalize the child's seemingly crazy behavior; he rationalized his lack of success
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53 Collaborative International Dictionary (GCIDE)
n. [ Cf. F. apologiste. ] One who makes an apology; one who speaks or writes in defense of a faith, a cause, or an institution; especially, one who argues in defense of Christianity. [ 1913 Webster ]
[しゃす, shasu] (v5s) (1) (See 謝する) to thank; (2) to apologize; to apologise; (3) to say farewell; to retreat; to retire; (4) to refuse; (5) to pay back; to settle old scores
[しゃする, shasuru] (vs-s) (1) to thank; (2) to apologize; to apologise; (3) to say farewell; to retreat; to retire; (4) to refuse; (5) to pay back; to settle old scores