ac·quit / əˈkwit/ • v. (-quit·ted, -quit·ting) 1. [tr.] (usu. be acquitted) free (someone) from a criminal charge by a verdict of not guilty: she was acquitted on all counts. 2. (acquit oneself) conduct oneself or perform in a specified way. ∎  (acquit oneself of) archaic discharge (a duty or responsibility): they acquitted themselves of their charge with vigilance.

acquit XIII. ME. acwiten, aquiten — OF. aquiter — Rom. *acquitāre, f. AC- + *quitāre QUIT2.
Hence acquittal XV.

ACQUIT

To set free, release or discharge as from an obligation, burden or accusation. To absolve one from an

obligation or a liability; or to legally certify the innocence of one charged with a crime.