verb
1.
Synonyms: avenge , redress, revenge, venge
2.
Synonyms: maintain 2, argue, assert, claim, contend, defend, justify, warrant
Related Word: advocate, plead (for), second, support, uphold; rationalize; bear out, prove
3.
Synonyms: exculpate , absolve, acquit, clear, disculpate, exonerate
Related Word: confute, disprove, refute; defend, guard, protect, shield
Contrasted words: accuse, attack, calumniate
Antonyms: convict