Vindicate
/ˈvɪn.dɪ.keɪt/noun
To clear someone of blame or suspicion.
Did you know?In medieval contexts, to 'vindicate' often implied not just clearing a name, but also a form of moral retribution or justice.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wen-
“to strive, to wish, to love, or to seek something.”
Latin
Latin
vindicāre
“to claim, to avenge, or to set free.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
vindicat-
“the act of avenging or defending.”
Old French
Old French
vindicator
“one who defends or clears someone of blame.”
Middle English
Middle English
vindicaten
“to clear from blame or to justify.”
Modern English
English
vindicate
“to clear from blame or suspicion.”
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