verb

vindicate

VIN-dih-kayt/ˈvɪndɪkeɪt/

to show that someone or something is right or justified after doubt or criticism

Finding the missing object in another drawer vindicates the accused student.

A falsely accused student is cleared when a teacher finds the missing object in another drawer, teacher reassuringly gestures to the relieved student.

Etymology

vindicateLatinclaim, free, defend, avenge

Latin vindicare covered asserting a claim and defending or freeing someone. In this English sense, that defense becomes clearing someone of blame or demonstrating that a person or position was right.

In context

Enhanced Public Domain117:02

I am here obliged to vindicate the reputation of an excellent Lady Who Was An Innocent sufferer

1700s Satire: Jonathan Swift - Gulliver's Travels (Audiobook)

More examples

Strong sales vindicated the company's risky investment.
These results may vindicate the researchers' unpopular theory.
After months of criticism, the team's success vindicates its coach.

Forms

vindicate · vindicates · vindicated · vindicating

vindication noun — Proof that someone or something was justified.

Similar words

justify: Shows good reasons for something, without requiring earlier criticism.
exonerate: Specifically clears someone of blame or responsibility for wrongdoing.
confirm: Establishes truth or accuracy, without necessarily answering doubt or criticism.