Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Exonerate
verb
/ ig-ZON-uh-rayt /
Medium
Meaning
To officially absolve from blame or guilt; to free from accusation.
Origin / Etymology
From Latin 'exoneratus' (relieved of burden), past participle of 'exonerare' — 'ex-' (off) + 'onus' (burden). Literally 'to lift the burden off'.
Synonyms
Absolve
Acquit
Vindicate
Antonyms
Condemn
Incriminate
Censure
Example Sentence
"While the Supreme Court did not exonerate every disenfranchised voter, it directed the ECI to ensure reasoned notice and an inclusive document list in future Special Intensive Revision cycles."
🎯 UPSC Usage
GS2 Polity / Mains: Use precisely in legal-judicial contexts — exonerated by the court, exonerated of charges. Often paired with discussions of due process and fair hearing.
Relevant Subjects
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