exculpate (v.)

• absolve
• acquit
• amnesty
• clear
• condone
• decontaminate
• discharge
• dismiss
• excuse
• exempt
• exonerate
• explain
• forgive
• free
• justify
• pardon
• purge
• rationalize
• rehabilitate
• reinstate
• release
• remit
• restore
• shrive
• spare
• vindicate
• warrant
• whitewash