Dictionary entries for 'vindicate'

Synonyms

vin·di·cate (vĭńdĭ-kāt́)

[Latin vindicāre, vindicāt-, from vindex, vindic-, surety, avenger.]

transitive verb: -cat·ed, -cat·ing, -cates.

To clear of accusation, blame, suspicion, or doubt with supporting arguments or proof: “Our society permits people to sue for libel so that they may vindicate their reputations” (Irving R. Kaufman)
To provide justification or support for: vindicate one's claim.
To justify or prove the worth of, especially in light of later developments.
To defend, maintain, or insist on the recognition of (one's rights, for example).
To exact revenge for; avenge.