— exoneration , n. — exonerative , adj. — exonerator , n.
/ig zon"euh rayt'/ , v.t., exonerated, exonerating .
1. to clear, as of an accusation; free from guilt or blame; exculpate: He was exonerated from the accusation of cheating.
2. to relieve, as from an obligation, duty, or task.
[ 1515-25; late ME exoneratus (ptp. of exonerare to unburden, discharge), equiv. to ex- EX- 1 + oner- (s. of onus ) a burden + -atus -ATE 1 ]
Syn. 1. vindicate. See absolve. 2. release, discharge, free.
Ant. 1. blame.