v. (acquitted, acquitting) 1 tr. (often foll. by of) declare (a person) not guilty (were acquitted of the offence). 2 refl. a conduct oneself or perform in a specified way (we acquitted ourselves well). b (foll. by of) discharge (a duty or responsibility).
[ ME f. OF aquiter f. med.L acquitare pay a debt (as AC-, QUIT) ]