English Dictionary
Definition of “absolve”
absolve (əbˈzɒlv
)
Definitions
verb (tr)
- (usually foll by from) to release from blame, sin, punishment, obligation, or responsibility
- to pronounce not guilty; acquit; pardon
Alternative Forms
abˈsolvable adjective abˈsolver noun Word Origin
C15: from Latin absolvere to free from, from ab-C15: from Latin to free from, from 1 + to make loose + solvere to make loose
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
=
excuse,
free,
clear,
release,
deliver,
loose,
forgive,
discharge,
liberate,
pardon,
exempt,
acquit,
vindicate,
remit,
let off,
set free
exonerate,
exculpate,
shrive,
Usage examples
But she had to do something, she had to absolve this terrible feeling of guilt.
Loraine, Philip, Loaded Questions (1985)Having said this though, it is hard to absolve our own government of blame for the terrible violence in Kashmir.
India Today (2001)"Ms Hobbs acknowledged the judgment did not absolve the ministry completely.
New Zealand Herald (2003)Now if you'll excuse me, I have a long line of friends who want me to absolve them of sin.
Sun, News of the World (2002)Employee failure to comply with clear drills does not absolve the employer and the management.
Torrington, Derek, Personnel Management: A New Approach (1991)
