Meaning & Definition of word "Accuse"

Accuse

/əˈkyūz/

verb:

  • 1. to say that someone has done something wrong or illegal.
    • Example: The prosecutor decided to accuse the defendant of theft.
  • 2. to charge someone with a fault or offense.
    • Example: She did not want to accuse him without any evidence.
  • 3. to blame someone for a wrongdoing or mistake.
    • Example: They accused her of not following the rules.

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin 'accusare', meaning 'to call to account'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

accuse someone of something:

to state that someone is guilty of a specific offense.

falsely accuse:

to wrongfully blame someone.

accuse and defend:

to make an accusation while also responding to it.

Related Words

accusation:

a statement that someone has done something wrong or illegal.

accuser:

a person who accuses another.

exonerate:

to clear from accusation or blame.

Slang Meanings of accuse

Meaning: to call out or snitch on someone informally.

Example Sentence: He accused his friend of cheating on the test to get a better grade.

Meaning: To throw shade at someone.

Example Sentence: She accused him of being lazy after seeing his messy room.