English vocabulary · C1
Vindicate
/ˈvɪn.dɪ.keɪt/ · v.
It means to prove that a person was right, or to show that a person is not guilty.
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Example sentences
- The new evidence vindicated the accused man.
- Her results vindicated years of hard work.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- vind — defend (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- CLEAR (removing all doubt or accusation)
- JUSTIFY (showing that an action was right)
- EXONERATE (formally removing blame or charges)
Words with the same root
vindicare — to defend
- vindictive — having a desire to harm someone who has hurt you
- avenge — to defend someone's honor by punishing the wrongdoer
Lesson notes
Vindicate. It means to prove that a person was right, or to show that a person is not guilty.
Similar words are clear, justify, and exonerate. Use vindicate when new proof shows that a person was right all along.
The new evidence vindicated the accused man. Her results vindicated years of hard work.
From Latin. Vind means defend. To defend someone with proof and make them right. That is vindicate.