1. (n.) The act of vindicating, or the state of being vindicated; defense; justification against denial or censure; as, the vindication of opinions; his vindication is complete.

2. (n.) The claiming a thing as one's own; the asserting of a right or title in, or to, a thing.

absolution acquittal acquittance clearance clearing compurgation destigmatization destigmatizing discharge disculpation dismissal exculpation excuse exoneration explanation forgiveness justification pardon purgation purging quietus quittance rationalization rehabilitation reinstatement release remission restoration verdict of acquittal