'exonerate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exonerare,' where 'ex-' meant 'out of' and 'onus' meant 'burden.'

'exonerare' transformed into the French word 'exonérer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'exonerate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to remove a burden,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to clear from blame or accusation.'