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

---

inculpate British  

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

verb

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

---

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

Nobody doubts that a clever jurist with a dictionary and a truckload of motivated reasoning can use the law to exculpate himself and inculpate others.

From Slate • Jun. 26, 2023

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 • Jun. 23, 2023

“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 • Jan. 27, 2023

Have we reached that point in our society where scoundrels can escape punishment if only they inculpate others?

From Time Magazine Archive

These words produced the greatest excitement throughout the court; and an animated discussion ensued, how far the testimony could go to inculpate a party not accused.

From Tom Burke Of "Ours", Volume II by Lever, Charles James