Exonerate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To exonerate means to officially declare someone not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing, clearing them of blame or responsibility. It often follows new evidence or a legal review.
Definition:
To clear someone of blame or fault; declare innocent.
Synonyms:
absolve, acquit, vindicate, clear, discharge
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
accuse, convict, blame
Common Collocations:
exonerate from charges, exonerate completely, publicly exonerate
Derivatives:
exonerated, exonerating, exoneration
Usage Tips:
Use "exonerate" when officially declaring someone free from guilt or responsibility after investigation or evidence.
Common Phrases:
exonerate someone of wrongdoing, fully exonerate, wrongfully exonerated
Etymology:
From Latin "exonerare," meaning "to free from a burden," combining "ex-" (out) and "onus" (burden).
Examples:
- 1. The new evidence helped exonerate the wrongly accused man.
- 2. The court decided to exonerate her after reviewing the case thoroughly.
- 3. He was exonerated when the real culprit confessed.
- 4. The investigation aims to exonerate innocent parties quickly.