exculpate

EXCUL'PATE, v.t. [L. ex and culpo, to blame, culpa, fault.]

To clear by words from a charge or imputation of fault or guilt; to excuse. How naturally are we inclined to exculpate ourselves and throw the blame on others. Eve endeavored to exculpate herself for eating the forbidden fruit,and throw the blame on the serpent; Adam attempted to exculpate himself and throw the blame on Eve.