Definition

1. Verb:
   • To clear of accusation, blame, suspicion, or doubt with supporting proof: To prove that someone or something is right, innocent, or justified, especially after being criticized or doubted.
   • To maintain, uphold, or defend: To assert or justify a right, claim, or principle.
   • To show to be right by providing justification or proof: To demonstrate the correctness or validity of an action, decision, or belief.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • The new evidence completely vindicated the defendant, proving his innocence.
  • The investigation's findings vindicated her decision to raise the alarm.
  • He sought to vindicate his reputation after the false allegations were made public.

Advanced Usage

• "to vindicate oneself": To prove one's own innocence or correctness.

  • She felt compelled to vindicate herself in front of the committee.

• "to vindicate a right/claim": To successfully defend or justify a legal or moral entitlement.

  • The court's ruling vindicated the citizens' right to peaceful assembly.

Variants and Related Words

• Vindication (n): The act of vindicating or the state of being vindicated; proof that someone or something is right.

  • The report was a complete vindication of their policy.

• Vindicator (n): A person or thing that vindicates.

  • He was seen as a vindicator of free speech.

Synonyms

• Exonerate: To absolve from blame or a charge.
• Justify: To show or prove to be right or reasonable.
• Acquit: To free someone from a criminal charge by a verdict of not guilty.
• Uphold: To confirm or support something that has been questioned.

Antonyms

• Accuse: To charge someone with an offense or crime.
• Blame: To assign responsibility for a fault or wrong.
• Condemn: To express complete disapproval of; to sentence someone to a punishment.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• A vindication of [something]: An event or piece of evidence that serves as proof of the correctness of a belief or action.
  • The successful product launch was a vindication of her risky strategy.

Verb

1. clear of accusation, blame, suspicion, or doubt with supporting proof
   • You must vindicate yourself and fight this libel
2. maintain, uphold, or defend
   • vindicate the rights of the citizens
3. show to be right by providing justification or proof
   • vindicate a claim