Definition

To free someone from blame or responsibility for a wrongdoing.

Example

The evidence presented in court helped to exculpate the defendant.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard they finally found evidence to exculpate him from all the accusations.

Really? That must be a huge relief for him.

Yeah, it’s nice to see the truth come out and clear his name.

Definitely! Everyone deserves a chance to be exculpated when they're innocent.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exculpate → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "culpa" (meaning fault or blame). The word means to clear someone from blame or to declare them innocent, effectively taking them out of the realm of fault.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'cleared from blame' — 'ex-' means out of, and 'culpa' means fault. This helps you remember that exculpate means to remove blame.

Visually Confused Words