verb
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implicate
IHMP-lih-kayt
Implicate (verb) means to show that someone is involved in something wrong or criminal. Example: “The witness statement implicated two other suspects.”
verb
1
To show that someone is involved in something wrong or criminal.
"The witness statement implicated two other suspects."
"New evidence implicated him in the fraud scheme."
2
To suggest or imply something as a natural consequence.
"The findings implicate stress as a major factor in the illness."
How to use implicate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo connect someone to a crime or wrongdoing, or to suggest something logically follows.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "implicit" — implicate is a verb meaning to involve or accuse; implicit is an adjective meaning unstated.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
implicate someone in a crime
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Word forms
- Plural
- implicates
- Third person singular
- implicates
- Past tense
- implicated
- Comparative
- more implicate
- Superlative
- most implicate
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The witness statement _____ two other suspects.
Etymology
From Latin implicatus, past participle of implico ("to entangle, involve"), from plico ("to fold"). A doublet of imply and employ.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for implicate
See all rhymes for implicate →Frequently asked questions
What does “implicate” mean?
The word “implicate” means to show that someone is involved in something wrong or criminal. In plain terms, to connect someone to a crime or wrongdoing, or to suggest something logically follows.
How do you pronounce “implicate”?
“Implicate” is pronounced IHMP-lih-kayt (/ˈɪmplɪkeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “implicate” in a sentence?
Here is “implicate” used in a sentence: “The witness statement implicated two other suspects.”
What part of speech is “implicate”?
“Implicate” is a verb.
Where does the word “implicate” come from?
The word “implicate” comes from Latin. From Latin implicatus, past participle of implico ("to entangle, involve"), from plico ("to fold"). A doublet of imply and employ.
How many meanings does “implicate” have?
“Implicate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to show that someone is involved in something wrong or criminal.
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