accuse

Definition

To find fault with, blame, censure.

Etymology

First attested around 1300. From Middle English acusen, from Old French acuser, from Latin accūsō (“to call to account, accuse”), from ad (“to”) + causa (“cause, lawsuit, reason”). Akin to cause. Displaced native English bewray.

Example Sentences

• "[…] and their thoughts the meanwhile accusing or else excusing one another."
• "We are accused of having persuaded Austria and Sardinia to lay down their arms when their differences might have involved the Powers of Europe in contention."
• "For the U.S. President to be impeached, he must be accused of a high crime or misdemeanor."

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