acquit

views updated May 11 2018

ac·quit / əˈkwit/ • v. (-quit·ted, -quit·ting) 1. [tr.] (usu. be acquitted) free (someone) from a criminal charge by a verdict of not guilty: she was acquitted on all counts. 2. (acquit oneself) conduct oneself or perform in a specified way. ∎  (acquit oneself of) archaic discharge (a duty or responsibility): they acquitted themselves of their charge with vigilance.

acquit

views updated May 23 2018

acquit XIII. ME. acwiten, aquiten — OF. aquiter — Rom. *acquitāre, f. AC- + *quitāre QUIT2.
Hence acquittal XV.

Acquit

views updated May 23 2018

ACQUIT

To set free, release or discharge as from an obligation, burden or accusation. To absolve one from an

obligation or a liability; or to legally certify the innocence of one charged with a crime.