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Exculpate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exculpate

[ɛksˈkʌl.peɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To exculpate means to clear someone from blame or fault. It is often used in legal situations where a person is found not guilty of an accusation or crime. Essentially, it involves demonstrating that a person is innocent or not responsible for something.

Synonyms

absolve, clear, exonerate, vindicate.

Examples of usage

  • The evidence helped to exculpate the defendant.
  • The witness's testimony was crucial to exculpating him.
  • She was exculpated from any wrongdoing.
  • The investigation aimed to exculpate the accused party.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'exculpate'

The term 'exculpate' comes from the Latin word 'exculpare', which is a combination of 'ex-' meaning 'out of' or 'from' and 'culpa' meaning 'fault' or 'blame'. The use of the term in English dates back to the early 19th century, around the 1800s, and it was adopted into legal terminology to describe the act of removing guilt or blame from a person. Its usage has persisted in legal contexts, where it emphasizes the process of demonstrating someone's innocence. The evolution of 'exculpate' reflects a broader historical theme of justice and the legal system's role in protecting individual rights. Over time, it has become a critical term in discussions about legal proceedings, morality, and ethics.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,656 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.