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DictionaryRoot: -atus
Latin

-atus

having or having undergone something

Forms

  • -atus
  • -at- — The form used before further Latin endings.
  • -ate — An English development of the Latin ending.

Origin

Latin -atus was commonly formed from verbs ending in -are; it also formed descriptions from nouns.

Note

It can express either the result of an action or possession of a feature.

35 / 97
A relieved falsely accused worker is cleared when a camera photograph shows a wind gust toppled the shelf, evidence and relief.
verb

exculpate

EKS-kul-payt/ˈekskʌlpeɪt/

Clear someone of blame or alleged guilt.

Etymology
exLatinout, away; also thoroughly
+culpLatinblame, fault
+ateLatinhaving or having undergone something

The underlying image is taking someone “out of blame.” To exculpate people is therefore to clear them of responsibility for an alleged wrong, rather than merely forgive it.

Full entry

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