exculpate
UK: /ˈɛkskʌlpeɪt/ | US: /ˈɛkskʌlpeɪt/
vt. to clear from alleged fault or guilt; declare or prove blameless
The word "exculpate" originates from Latin exculpatus, combining ex- (out of) and culpa (blame). The root culp is also seen in "culprit" and "culpable." The suffix -ate converts it into a verb. Literally, it means "to remove blame," reflecting its legal and moral usage to absolve someone of wrongdoing.
The new evidence helped exculpate the defendant, leading to his acquittal.
Her alibi exculpated her from any involvement in the crime.
The investigation aimed to exculpate the company from accusations of fraud.
Despite efforts to exculpate himself, the public remained skeptical.
The lawyer's strategy was to exculpate her client by discrediting the witness.