Exonerate

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

← All Words

📰 Related Articles

9 Aug Current Affairs Today, August 9, 2026 9 Aug Parliament Passes the MSMED Overhaul: Decriminalisation... 9 Aug Beyond E-Filing: What the e-Courts Phase III Numbers...

✍️ Related Editorials

9 Aug The 60:40 Dilemma: MGNREGA's Successor Scheme and the... 9 Aug Putting People at the Heart of Parliament's... 9 Aug Who Controls the NGO Before the Government Regulates It

A new UPSC word every morning Word of the Day at 7am, plus daily current affairs and free PDFs

Join Channel