Need another word for Absolve? Use these synonyms of Absolve from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
acquit
exonerate
excuse
vindicate
exculpate
pardon
forgive
reprieve
justify
condone
mitigate
extenuate
alleviate
absolve
acquittal
clearance
liberation
freeing
release
discharge
exemption
dispensation
justification
rationalization
explanation
apology
defense
exoneration
vindication
Meaning of Absolve
The primary meaning of "absolve" is to officially or formally declare someone free from guilt, blame, or responsibility.
Definitions
- Officially or formally declare someone free from guilt, blame, or responsibility
- * Release someone from a duty, obligation, or responsibility
- * Forgive someone for a mistake or wrongdoing
Etymology of Absolve
The word "absolve" comes from the Latin "absolvere", which means "to set free" or "to acquit"
It is a combination of "ab" (meaning "from" or "away") and "solvere" (meaning "to loose" or "to free")
The word has been used in English since the 15th century to mean "to clear from guilt or blame"
Example Uses
- The priest absolved the congregation of their sins during the confession
- * The judge absolved the defendant of the crime due to lack of evidence
- * The company absolved itself of responsibility for the environmental disaster