What does 'exonerate' mean?

The term 'exonerate' specifically means to clear someone from blame or to officially pronounce them not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing. In legal contexts, when an individual is exonerated, it indicates that evidence has been presented or findings released that demonstrate their innocence, thereby lifting any adverse legal consequences that had been associated with the charge against them. This is a distinct process and serves as a powerful affirmation that the individual was wrongfully accused or held accountable for actions they did not commit.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the meaning of 'exonerate.' Accusing someone involves assigning blame or suggesting they have committed a wrongdoing, which is the opposite of being exonerated. Approving of someone's actions does not relate to the legalities of guilt or innocence. Ignoring a wrongful act also diverges from the core meaning since it does not entail an official declaration regarding someone's guilt status; rather, it suggests a lack of recognition of the act itself. Thus, the correct understanding of 'exonerate' distinctly focuses on the act of exculpating someone from any blame, encapsulated perfectly by the choice you've identified.