v.
Pronunciation: ' ek-( ˌ )sk ə l- ˌ p ā t, ( ˌ )ek- '
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: -pat · ed ; -pat · ing
Etymology: Medieval Latin exculpatus, past participle of exculpare, from Latin ex- + culpa blame
Date: circa 1681
: to clear from alleged fault or guilt
– ex · cul · pa · tion \ ˌ ek-( ˌ )sk ə l- ' p ā -sh ə n \ noun
synonyms EXCULPATE , ABSOLVE , EXONERATE , ACQUIT , VINDICATE mean to free from a charge. EXCULPATE implies a clearing from blame or fault often in a matter of small importance < exculpating himself from the charge of overenthusiasm>. ABSOLVE implies a release either from an obligation that binds the conscience or from the consequences of disobeying the law or committing a sin <cannot be absolved of blame>. EXONERATE implies a complete clearance from an accusation or charge and from any attendant suspicion of blame or guilt < exonerated by the investigation>. ACQUIT implies a formal decision in one's favor with respect to a definite charge <voted to acquit the defendant>. VINDICATE may refer to things as well as persons that have been subjected to critical attack or imputation of guilt, weakness, or folly, and implies a clearing effected by proving the unfairness of such criticism or blame <her judgment was vindicated >.