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Exonerated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exonerated

[ษชษกหˆzษ’nษ™reษชtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal term

To exonerate someone means to clear them from blame or fault, especially in a legal context. This term is often used when someone who has been accused of a crime is found to be innocent after all evidence has been reviewed. Exoneration can occur through various means, including new evidence surfacing or the dismissal of charges. This action can have profound implications for the individual's life, allowing them to restore their reputation and reclaim their place in society.

Synonyms

absolve, acquit, clear, pardon, vindicate.

Examples of usage

  • The court exonerated him after new evidence emerged.
  • She was exonerated and her name was cleared.
  • The DNA test results exonerated the wrongly accused.
  • The investigation was thorough, leading to his exoneration.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, being exonerated means a person has been cleared of all charges against them.
  • High-profile cases of exoneration often involve DNA evidence proving the innocence of wrongfully convicted individuals.
  • The process of exoneration can bring about public discussions on criminal justice reform and the accuracy of legal systems.

Pop Culture

  • Exoneration stories often feature in films and documentaries that highlight social justice issues, raising awareness about wrongful convictions.
  • Television series like 'Making a Murderer' explore the journeys of individuals fighting for exoneration.
  • The term frequently appears in media reports, especially during discussions of high-profile legal cases.

Psychology

  • The feeling of being exonerated can lead to relief and closure for those who have been wrongfully accused.
  • Exoneration can heavily influence an individual's mental health, potentially leading to post-trauma growth or challenges.
  • Understanding wrongful accusations can enhance empathy and awareness about the psychological impact of legal proceedings.

Literature

  • Many classic novels explore themes of exoneration, such as individuals reclaiming their dignity after being wrongfully judged.
  • In Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird', the protagonist faces the challenge of defending an innocent man, touching on themes of justice and exoneration.
  • Exoneration is often depicted as a major turning point in stories, symbolizing hope and redemption.

Origin of 'exonerated'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'exonerate' comes from the Latin 'exonerare', which means to unburden or release.
  • It combines 'ex' (out of) and 'onus' (burden), emphasizing the act of lifting a load off someone.
  • The word has been used in English since the early 17th century, reflecting its legal and moral implications.

The term 'exonerate' comes from the Latin word 'exonerare,' which means 'to free from a burden or load.' This root combines 'ex,' meaning 'out of' or 'from,' and 'onerare,' meaning 'to burden.' The word has evolved through Middle English and was adopted into modern English usage in the early 19th century, primarily within legal parlance. Its emergence is closely tied to the growing emphasis on individual rights and the integrity of the judicial process. Over time, it has come to symbolize not only a legal resolution but also a broader social justice context, reflecting society's ongoing pursuit to rectify past wrongs and ensure that the innocent are rightfully recognized.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,865, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.