Vindicate means to justify prove or reinforce an idea ? or to absolve from guilt. If your family thinks you hogged the last piece of pie on Thanksgiving you'll be vindicated when your younger brother fesses up.
Vindicate somebody to prove that somebody is not guilty when they have been accused of doing something wrong or illegal; to prove that somebody is right about something. New evidence emerged vindicating him completely.
To clear of accusation blame suspicion or doubt with supporting arguments or proof: "Our society permits people to sue for libel so that they may vindicate their reputations" (Irving R. Kaufman).
Vindicate which has been used in English since at least the mid-16th century comes from a form of the Latin verb vindicare meaning ?to set free avenge or lay claim to.?