Exoneration

Noun

Definition: The act of declaring or proving someone innocent or not guilty of wrongdoing.

Synonyms: Acquittal, Vindication

Antonyms: Conviction, Guilt

Examples:

The new evidence led to her exoneration and release from prison.
The exoneration of the defendant was met with relief by their family and friends.

Mnemonics:

"Exoneration sounds like 'exonerate,' which means to clear someone from blame or wrongdoing."

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "exoneration" comes from the Latin word "exoneratio," which means "liberation" or "clearance." It is derived from the prefix "ex-" meaning "out" or "from" and the Latin word "onero," meaning "to burden" or "to load."

Historical Usage:

The term "exoneration" has been used in legal contexts to describe the process of clearing someone from accusations or liabilities. It has been a part of legal and judicial vocabulary for centuries.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Innocent until proven guilty"

Explanation:

This phrase emphasizes the fundamental principle of the legal system that individuals should be considered innocent and free from blame until there is sufficient evidence to prove their guilt.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing exoneration with pardon or forgiveness.

Explanation:

Exoneration refers to clearing someone from blame or finding them not guilty based on evidence, while a pardon or forgiveness involves the act of overlooking or absolving someone from guilt or punishment. Exoneration is based on proving innocence, while pardon or forgiveness is a more discretionary act.