exculpate

/ˈek-(ˌ)skəl-ˌpāt/

Medieval Latin exculpatus, past participle of exculpare, from Latin ex- + culpa blame

verb

  1. to clear from alleged fault or guilt

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. absolve implies a release either from an obligation that binds the conscience or from the consequences of disobeying the law or committing a sin.