Entry Word: justify

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to be an acceptable reason for <you seem to think that losing a basketball game justifies a temper tantrum>

Synonyms excuse

Related Words account (for), explain, rationalize; brush (aside or off), condone, disregard, forgive, gloss (over), ignore, pardon, pass over, remit, shrug off, wink (at)

2 to continue to declare to be true or proper despite opposition or objections <failed to justify the need for a war at this time> — see maintain 2