To exculpate; vindicate; justify.
To overlook; pardon.
To release from a service, demand, or claim.
A plea in extenuation of an offense, neglect, or failure; apology.
The act of excusing.
A reason for excusing.
He made the excuse that he did not wish to start till there was a clear road. – The Complete Project Gutenberg Works of George Meredith by George Meredith
But there is some little excuse this time. – The Black Robe by Wilkie Collins
Excuse me, Lady Anne. – Mary Gray by Katharine Tynan