exonerate

[ig-zon-uh-reyt]

verb (used with object)

exonerated, exonerating 

1. to clear, as of an accusation; free from guilt or blame; exculpate.

   He was exonerated from the accusation of cheating.

   Synonyms: vindicate
   Antonyms: blame

2. to relieve, as from an obligation, duty, or task.

   Synonyms: free, discharge, release

exonerate

/ ɪɡˈzɒnəˌreɪt /

verb

1. to clear or absolve from blame or a criminal charge

2. to relieve from an obligation or task; exempt

Other Word Forms

• exoneration noun
• exonerative adjective
• exonerator noun
• unexonerative adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of exonerate¹

First recorded in 1515–25; late Middle English, from Latin exonerātus (past participle of exonerāre “to unburden, discharge”), equivalent to ex- “out of, from; thoroughly” + oner- (stem of onus ) “a burden” + -ātus past participle suffix; ex- ¹, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of exonerate¹

C16: from Latin exonerāre to free from a burden, from onus a burden

Synonym Study

See absolve.

Example Sentences

"Their arrest, prosecution and conviction for harassment were an egregious affront on those rights and they are delighted to have finally been exonerated."

Read more on BBC

Only in 1906, after many twists, did the high court of appeal overturn the original verdict, exonerating Dreyfus.

Read more on Barron's

"We are confident that when the facts come out, the Prince Group and its Chairman will be fully exonerated."

Read more on Barron's

Even if the innocent are exonerated, the process is the punishment.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

While he was exonerated for the murder charge, his drug conviction still stands, they have said.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• absolve 
• acquit 
• discharge 
• dismiss 
• exempt 
• justify 
• pardon 
• vindicate