Definition of: justify

(jus′tə·fī) v. ·fied, ·fy·ing v.t.
1. To show to be just, right, or proper.
2. To declare or prove guiltless or blameless; exonerate; acquit.
3. Law To show sufficient reason for (something done).
4. Printing To adjust (lines) to the proper length by spacing.
—v.i.
5. Law a To show sufficient reason for something done, b To qualify as a bondsman.
6. Printing To be properly spaced; fit. [<OF justifier <LL justificare pardon <justus just + facere make] Synonyms: absolve, acquit, approve, authorize, clear, defend, endorse, exculpate, excuse, exonerate, maintain, sustain, uphold, vindicate, warrant. That may sometimes be excused which cannot be justified; that which can be justified does not need to be excused. See RATIFY. Antonyms: arraign, blame, censure, chide, condemn, convict, criminate, denounce, reprehend, reprobate, reprove.