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. vin•di•cate (ˈvɪn dɪˌkeɪt) v.t. -cat•ed, -cat•ing. 1. to clear, as from an accusation or suspicion: to vindicate someone's honor. 2. to afford justification for; justify. 3. to uphold or justify by argument or evidence. 4. to maintain or defend against opposition. 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. To vindicate someone means to free them from blame or suspicion, often by proving they are right or justified. Yes, vindicate can be used in legal contexts to refer to the act of defending rights or proving innocence. Indeed, vindicate can also imply personal affirmation or proving one's self-worth. VINDICATE definition: 1. to prove that what someone said or did was right or true, after other people thought it was…. Learn more. 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 emerged, vindicating him completely. The meaning of VINDICATION is an act of vindicating : the state of being vindicated; specifically : justification against denial or censure : defense. 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 meaning: 1. to prove that what someone said or did was right or true, after other people thought it was…. Learn more. 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.