Definitions

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.

Stopping the war weeks short would vindicate their Hormuz strategy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

The need "to punish the club and to vindicate those clubs who have complied with the relevant rules" is referenced.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 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

The complaint in Villanueva’s lawsuit filed in June said it was an “attempt to clear his name, vindicate his reputation, and be made whole for the emotional distress defendants’ actions have caused him.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

Still, Picasso believed in his vision, and he believed that the future would vindicate him.

From "The Mona Lisa Vanishes" by Nicholas Day

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