definition of
justify

[1] #1 justify v. [warrant] show to be reasonable or provide adequate ground for; "The emergency does not warrant all of us buying guns"; "The end justifies the means". wn

[2] #2 justify v. [vindicate] show to be right by providing justification or proof; "vindicate a claim". wn

[3] #3 justify v. [apologize, apologise, excuse, rationalize, rationalise] defend, explain, clear away, or make excuses for by reasoning; "rationalize the child's seemingly crazy behavior"; "he rationalized his lack of success". wn

[4] #4 justify v. [absolve, free] let off the hook; "I absolve you from this responsibility". wn

[5] #5 justify v. adjust the spaces between words; "justify the margins". wn