rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryabsolveRelease from blame or responsibility
verb

absolve

ub-ZOLV/əbˈzɑːlv/

To free someone from blame or responsibility.

The judge absolves the wrongly accused person of blame.

A Black judge calmly releases a wrongly blamed person's file while that person stands relieved, no readable markings.
Etymology
abLatinaway, off
+solveLatinloosen, release

The image of “loosening away” underlies release from an oath or obligation and legal acquittal. To absolve people is to free them from blame or the consequences of their actions.

In context

Common Sense9:04
Does receiving a check actually repair anything? Or does it allow the payer to close a file and just move on? Does it absolve them morally
Should the US Pay Reparations to Iran for War Damages? | Editors Desk

More examples

  • A lack of evidence did not absolve him of responsibility.
  • The priest absolved the penitent after confession.
  • Officials insisted that the apology could not absolve the company.

Forms

absolve · absolves · absolved · absolving

Similar words

exonerate
Usually clears someone through evidence of innocence or faultlessness.
forgive
Can release resentment while still recognizing someone's fault.