inculpate

[ in-kuhl-peyt, in-kuhl-peyt ]

verb (used with object)

, in·cul·pat·ed, in·cul·pat·ing.

1. to charge with fault; blame; accuse.

   Antonyms: exonerate

2. to involve in a charge; incriminate.

   Antonyms: exonerate

inculpate

/ ˈɪnkʌlˌpeɪt; -trɪ; ɪnˈkʌlpətərɪ; ɪnˈkʌlpətɪv; ɪnˈkʌlpeɪt /

verb

1. tr to incriminate; cause blame to be imputed to

Derived Forms

• inculpative, adjective
• ˌinculˈpation, noun

Other Words From

• incul·pation noun
• in·cul·pa·to·ry [in-, kuhl, -p, uh, -tawr-ee, -tohr-ee], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of inculpate¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; from Late Latin inculpātus, past participle of inculpāre “to blame,” equivalent to Latin in- “in” + culp(a) “fault” + -ātus past participle suffix; in- ², -ate ¹; culpable

Word History and Origins

Origin of inculpate¹

C18: from Late Latin inculpāre, from Latin culpāre to blame, from culpa fault, blame

Example Sentences

I have observed that my letter might inculpate me in the eyes of persons unacquainted with the particulars of what had passed.

From Project Gutenberg

Sextus, unwilling to inculpate Vitellia, maintains an obstinate silence, and Titus finally ratifies the sentence of death.

From Project Gutenberg

He had never been examined at Westwood's trial—and the law does not compel a man to inculpate himself.

From Project Gutenberg

I have heard that this man, Bakewell, chooses voluntarily not to inculpate my son.

From Project Gutenberg

Moreover, he allowed Victor Durnovo to further inculpate himself.

From Project Gutenberg