culpa

blame, fault

1 / 1

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

Related word entries

exculpate