ˌek(ˌ)skəlˈpāshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Medieval Latin exculpation-, exculpatio, from exculpatus + Latin -ion-, -io -ion
1. : the act or fact of exculpating from alleged fault or crime
his exculpation was complete when his partner confessed to the theft
2. : an excuse or explanation by way of vindication
this is not said by way of exculpation of Aristotle — C.J.O'Neil
blaming Americans is a familiar exculpation — Time