VINDICATED

Barack Obama’s comment that his victory in Iowa’s caucuses last winter had “vindicated” his faith in the American people.  What does he mean?

This is a very complicated word.  Webster’s New World CD Dictionary offers five possible definitions.

1   to clear from criticism, blame, guilt, suspicion, etc.; uphold by evidence or argument

2   to defend or maintain (a cause, claim, etc.) against opposition

3   to serve as justification for; justify !a success which vindicated their belief in him“

4   to lay claim to or establish possession of (something for oneself or another)

5   [Obs.] a) to avenge b) to punish

The second definition is most likely the one that fits Obama’s use of this word.  John McCain saying he has always had faith in his country indicates that he did not check a dictionary for definitions.

Sarah Palin’s reaction to the Alaska Legislature’s Troopergate report was that it “vindicates” her.

If my son’s phonograph record store is a success his idea for a business will be vindicated. That would be the use of definition number one and three.  Frankly opening the store was a Hail Mary pass to independence for someone who does not like having a boss.

My wife’s decision to start a tutoring business was vindicated by her success.  The publishing of a column of mine on the Huntington Post was a vindication of my writing skills.