extenuate
verb (used with object)
to represent (a fault, offense, etc.) as less serious.
had extenuated
-
past perfectof extenuate.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Linforth had admitted there was an Englishwoman for whom Shere Ali cared, had admitted it reluctantly, had extenuated her thoughtlessness, had pleaded for her.
From The Broken Road by A. E. W. (Alfred Edward Woodley) Mason
He appeared, and confirmed the whole account: but with much more advantage to the captain, whose modesty had extenuated or concealed a great part of his merit.
From Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift
