To clear a person from a charge of guilt or fault; to prove or declare not guilty.

From Latin ''ex-'' (out of) and ''culpa'' (blame, fault).

absolve acquit vindicate exonerate
incriminate inculpate convict implicate
"The forensic evidence served to exculpate the accused, who was later released for want of proof."

Apply in GS Paper 2 answers on criminal justice, the presumption of innocence, and due process. A precise word for essays on wrongful prosecution, the burden of proof, and reform of investigation agencies where exculpatory evidence is suppressed.

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