Definition: [verb] To forgive; to pardon.
Example: I excused him his transgressions.
Definition: [verb] To allow to leave, or release from any obligation.
Example: I excused myself from the proceedings to think over what I'd heard.
Definition: [verb] To provide an excuse for; to explain, with the aim of alleviating guilt or negative judgement.
Example: You know he shouldn't have done it, so don't try to excuse his behavior!
Definition: [verb] To relieve of an imputation by apology or defense; to make apology for as not seriously evil; to ask pardon or indulgence for.
Definition: [noun] The act of making an excuse.