inculpate

American  

[in-kuhl-peyt, in-kuhl-peyt] / ɪnˈkʌl peɪt, ˈɪn kʌl peɪt /

verb (used with object)

inculpated, inculpating

1. to charge with fault; blame; accuse.

   Antonyms:

   exonerate

2. to involve in a charge; incriminate.

   Antonyms:

   exonerate

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inculpate British  

/ ˈɪnkʌlˌpeɪt, -trɪ, ɪnˈkʌlpətərɪ, ɪnˈkʌlpətɪv, ɪnˈkʌlpeɪt /

verb

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

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Other Word Forms

• inculpation noun
• inculpative adjective
• inculpatory adjective

Etymology

Origin of inculpate

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

Example Sentences

Thomas said Samia did not deserve a new trial because the confession “did not directly inculpate the defendant and was subject to a proper limiting instruction.”

From Seattle Times

“This is particularly concerning given that the defendant is aware that Witness-1 has information that would tend to inculpate the defendant.”

From New York Times

If they have changed their story, for example, juries may disregard their testimony, whatever they may say that inculpates a target.

From Salon

“The prosecutors tried to use this apparently exculpatory evidence against Rafiekian by making the blanket assertion that the undisclosed facts — known only to the government — would further inculpate the defendant,” they wrote.

From New York Times

Mueller and his team were trying to frighten people within President Trump's orbit in hopes they would inculpate him, Graham, the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, claimed Wednesday on "Hannity."

From Fox News