verb (used with object), in·cul·pat·ed, in·cul·pat·ing.
- to charge with fault; blame; accuse.
- to involve in a charge; incriminate.
verb
- (tr) to incriminate; cause blame to be imputed to
1798, noun of action from inculpate.
1799, “to accuse, bring charges against,” from Medieval Latin inculpatus, past participle of inculpare “to reproach, blame, censure,” from Latin in- “in” (see in- (2)) + culpare “to blame,” from culpa “fault.” But inculpable (late 15c.) means “not culpable, free from blame,” from Latin in- “not” (see in- (1)) + culpare.