Vindicate (verb)

1. To clear from an accusation, blame, suspicion, or doubt; to prove or show to be innocent.
2. To take vengeance for; to avenge.
3. To provide justification or support for; to uphold the righteousness of.

Origin:

Late latin vindicatus, past participle of vindicare to claim, avenge, from latin, to set free, acquit, from vindex, vindic-, avenger.

Examples:

1. He vindicated his innocence by presenting evidence.
2. She vindicated her reputation by taking legal action against the person who defamed her.
3. The court vindicated the defendant and he was found not guilty.
4. The experiment vindicated the hypothesis.
5. The evidence vindicated his claim and he was awarded the compensation.