Definition of justify

exculpate Definition: (verb) to free from blame or guilt. Petersons.com

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< justificative

Justin, Saint >

jus·ti·fy    (jst-f) KEY  

VERB:
jus·ti·fied , jus·ti·fy·ing , jus·ti·fies
VERB:
tr.

1. To demonstrate or prove to be just, right, or valid: justified each budgetary expense as necessary; anger that is justified by the circumstances.
2. To declare free of blame; absolve.
3. To free (a human) of the guilt and penalty attached to grievous sin. Used of God.
4. Law
   1. To demonstrate sufficient legal reason for (an action taken).
   2. To prove to be qualified as a bondsman.
5. Printing To adjust the spacing within (lines in a document, for example), so that the lines end evenly at a straight margin.

VERB:
intr.
Printing

To be adjusted in spacing so as to end evenly at the margin.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English justifien, from Old French justifier, from Late Latin istificre, from Latin, to act justly toward : istus, just ; see just ¹ + -ficre, -fy

SYNONYMS:
justify , warrant

These verbs mean to be a proper or sufficient reason for: an outburst justified by extreme provocation; drastic measures not warranted by the circumstances.

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