Note: This report contains references to derogatory and profane terms.

Florida Republican Rep. Ted Yoho spoke on the House floor about a confrontation on the Capitol steps Monday with New York Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, after which he was alleged to have referred to her as a “f—— b—-.”

“The offensive name-calling, words attributed to me by the press, were never spoken to my colleagues, and if they were construed that way I apologize for the misunderstanding,” Yoho said Wednesday.

“The apology was appropriate,” House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer said afterward. “Let us treat one another with the respect and dignity each of us deserves, not only as a member of this body but as a human being.”

[Watch: House holds moment of silence for Rep. John Lewis ]