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.

This documentary doesn’t absolve any sins; it highlights them.

From Salon • Feb. 1, 2026

Rather than developing parallel systems that may make markets less efficient and transparent and absolve companies of the responsibility of managing risks, we need strengthened implementation of proven frameworks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

However, the Nuremberg tribunals after World War II established in international law that obeying an unlawful order does not absolve an individual of responsibility for atrocities.

From Slate • Dec. 3, 2025

And then go the next day to absolve myself.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 11, 2025

This I did too, with my musket clutched absurdly in one hand, and clutched in my head, the fevered hope that once crossed, the river should absolve us of scent, and the dogs lose us.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson

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"The Declaration of Independence," Vocabulary from the historical document

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