Definitions

absolve

[ab-zolv, -solv] / æbˈzɒlv, -ˈsɒlv /

VERB

free from responsibility, duty

Synonyms

STRONGEST

acquit exempt exonerate forgive pardon relieve vindicate

STRONG

bleach clear discharge exculpate excuse free launder liberate loose release sanitize spare spring whitewash

WEAK

blink at go easy on let off let off easy let off the hook let up on lifeboat set free wink at wipe it off wipe the slate clean write off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

accuse blame censure charge condemn convict damn punish sentence

STRONG

hold keep limit restrain

WEAK

bind impeach incriminate obligate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That deal, and a similar one struck in 2024, didn’t absolve him of criminal liability.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 12, 2026

She can’t absolve her father of his failures, but she can offer him — and herself — another chance.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 15, 2025

Tom Brandis is a rumpled, pudgy wreck, an ex-priest who no longer believes in God and can’t absolve his son of a sin that shattered their family.

From Salon • Oct. 6, 2025

On her most popular Telegram channel she has issued "decrees" to absolve her more than 36,000 followers from bills and debts.

From BBC • Sep. 3, 2025

I might be lower than the ground, but that doesn’t absolve her from obligations to her own honor.

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black

Vocabulary lists containing absolve

The Declaration of Independence

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Romeo and Juliet

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"The Declaration of Independence," Vocabulary from the historical document

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