absolve
8 synonyms and 1 antonym for absolve, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To officially clear someone of blame, guilt, or responsibility.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use absolve
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
absolve of guilt
absolve responsibility
absolve from blame
Etymology
From Latin absolvere, "to set free" or "acquit," built from ab ("away from") and solvo ("to loosen, release").
Full origin of absolve →Frequently asked questions
What does “absolve” mean?
The word “absolve” means to officially clear someone of blame, guilt, or responsibility. In plain terms, to officially declare someone free of blame or sin.
How do you pronounce “absolve”?
“Absolve” is pronounced uhb-ZOLV (/æbˈzɑlv/ in IPA).
How do you use “absolve” in a sentence?
Here is “absolve” used in a sentence: “The inquiry absolved the company of any wrongdoing.”
What part of speech is “absolve”?
“Absolve” is a verb.
Where does the word “absolve” come from?
The word “absolve” comes from Latin. From Latin absolvere, "to set free" or "acquit," built from ab ("away from") and solvo ("to loosen, release").
How many meanings does “absolve” have?
“Absolve” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to officially clear someone of blame, guilt, or responsibility.
