exonerated
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪɡˈzɒnəreɪtɪd/
KK: /ɪɡˈzɒnəreɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Freed from blame or guilt; declared innocent after being accused of a crime.
Example
After a long trial, he was exonerated and could finally return to his normal life.
Conversation
Did you hear that Jamie was finally exonerated from all those charges?
Yeah, I read about it! It's such a relief for him.
I can't believe it took so long for the truth to come out.
Right? It’s great to see him exonerated and able to move on with his life.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
absolved
cleared
vindicated
Antonyms
accused
blamed
charged
verb
Definition
To be declared free from blame or responsibility for a wrongdoing or fault.
Example
After the investigation, he was exonerated and his name was cleared.
Tense Forms
Past: exonerated
Past Participle: exonerated
Conversation
Did you hear that Jamie was finally exonerated from all charges?
Yeah, I read about that! It was such a relief for everyone.
I can't believe how long it took for the truth to come out.
Root Explanation
Exonerated → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "onerare" (meaning to burden). The word "exonerated" means to be freed from a burden or responsibility, particularly in a legal context where someone is cleared of blame or guilt.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'freed from a burden' — 'ex-' means out of, and 'onerare' means to burden. This helps you remember that exonerated means to be cleared of blame.
Visually Confused Words
unexonerated
exenterate