Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪɡˈzɒnəreɪtɪv/
KK: /ɪɡˈzɒnəreɪtɪv/
Definition
Describing something that helps to clear someone from blame or responsibility.
Example
The exonerative evidence proved his innocence in the case.
Conversation

I just read an article about how exonerative evidence can change a person's life.

That's interesting! It must be so powerful to prove someone's innocence.

Exactly! It feels freeing to know that justice can be served with such exonerative information.

For sure, everyone deserves a chance to clear their name.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
absolving
vindicating
clearing
Antonyms
accusing
blaming
condemning
Root Explanation
Exonerative → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "onerare" (meaning to burden). The word "exonerative" means having the effect of relieving someone from a burden or responsibility.
Memory Tip
Think of 'ex-' meaning 'out of' and 'onerare' meaning 'to burden' — this helps you remember that exonerative means to relieve someone from a burden.
Visually Confused Words
onerative
venerative
generative
execrative
enervative
exertive
ponderative
penetrative