Vindicate, which has been used in English since at least the mid-16th century, comes from a form of the Latin verb vindicare, meaning “to set free, avenge, or lay claim to.”

Vindicate means to justify, prove, or reinforce an idea — or to absolve from guilt. If your family thinks you hogged the last piece of pie on Thanksgiving, you'll be vindicated when your younger brother fesses up.

VINDICATE meaning: 1. to prove that what someone said or did was right or true, after other people thought it was…. Learn more.

Feb 13, 2026 · Words like vindicate can often be tricky—its meaning can seem straightforward but can have many shades depending on the context. Today, I’ll walk you through what it really means, how …

vindicate somebody to prove that somebody is not guilty when they have been accused of doing something wrong or illegal; to prove that somebody is right about something. New evidence …

"The suits are valid and are being brought to vindicate legal wrongs, under both federal and state law.

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).

Aug 6, 2025 · When you vindicate someone, you show that they are innocent or correct. When you seek vindication, you're trying to prove or establish that innocence or correctness.

Vindicate means to justify, prove, or reinforce an idea — or to absolve from guilt. If your family thinks you hogged the last piece of pie on Thanksgiving, you'll be vindicated when your younger brother fesses up.

Factsheet What does the verb vindicate mean? There are 12 meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb vindicate, four of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and …