The word 'vindicate' comes from the Latin word 'vindicare', which means 'to lay claim to'. In English, the word evolved to mean 'to clear someone of blame or suspicion'. If a person or their decisions, actions, or ideas are vindicated, they are proved to be correct, after people have said that they were wrong. The director said he had been vindicated by the experts' report. 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. Defending Justice: To prove that someone or something is right or justified after being doubted or accused. The lawyer's compelling argument helped vindicate the innocent defendant. Historical documents vindicate the controversial theory about the ancient civilization. to uphold, maintain, or defend (a cause, etc): to vindicate a claim Etymology: 17th Century: from Latin vindicāre, from vindex claimant ˈvindiˌcator n ˈvindiˌcatory adj vindicate: To clear of accusation, blame, suspicion, or doubt with supporting arguments or proof. 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.” 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 to use it correctly, and share some handy tips to make sure you're never in doubt. To vindicate means to clear someone of blame, suspicion, or accusations, providing justification or proof for their actions or behavior. It can also refer to the act of defending or maintaining a right or cause against criticism or affirming its credibility or validity. VINDICATE meaning: 1. to prove that what someone said or did was right or true, after other people thought it was…. Learn more.