exculpations
|ex-cul-pa-tions|
🇺🇸
/ˌɛkskəlˈpeɪʃənz/
🇬🇧
/ˌekskəlˈpeɪʃ(ə)nz/
(exculpation)
free from blame
Etymology
'exculpation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exculpatio' / 'exculpatus', where 'ex-' meant 'out of/from' and 'culpa' meant 'blame'.
'exculpation' changed from Late Latin/Medieval Latin 'exculpātiō' (noun) derived from the verb 'exculpāre' and passed into English via legal/clerical Latin and French usage, eventually becoming the modern English 'exculpation'.
Initially it meant 'the act of removing blame' in Latin contexts, and over time it has retained this basic sense as 'freedom from blame' or 'formal clearing' in modern English.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of clearing someone from alleged fault or guilt; exoneration.
The committee's exculpations of the officials did little to calm public outrage.
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Noun 2
statements or explanations offered to remove blame or justify conduct (often used in legal or formal contexts).
Her lawyer submitted several exculpations to support her claim of innocence.
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Last updated: 2025/12/12 15:41