vindicate

[vin-di-keyt] / ˈvɪn dɪˌkeɪt /

VERB

prove one's innocence

Synonyms

STRONGEST

absolve acquit corroborate defend disprove exonerate justify prove refute substantiate uphold

STRONG

advocate argue assert claim clear confute contend establish exculpate excuse extenuate free guard maintain protect rationalize rehabilitate second shield support warrant whitewash

WEAK

bear out disculpate do justice to free from blame plead for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

blame charge condemn convict deny disprove incriminate prove sentence

STRONG

attack desert destroy forget hurt ignore neglect oppose reject ruin

WEAK

accuse punish

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.

Sinn Féin MP Maskey said the coroner's findings vindicate families who have long maintained their loved ones were innocent and shot without justification.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Megan notes that the data vindicate Fed officials’ decision to keep interest rates steady at the January meeting.

From Barron's • Feb. 12, 2026

Julia and Mark discuss the remaining paths to justice after the killing of Renee Good and examine what happens when the DOJ abandons its duty to seek accountability and vindicate civil rights.

From Slate • Jan. 17, 2026

The law can be a maze for Americans trying to vindicate their rights, but at the end is supposed to be an exit leading to justice.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 1, 2025

Trouble arose only when authors used their stories to vindicate themselves against a great hurt or perceived injustice.

From "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris

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