alibi

Meanings

1. The plea or mode of defense under which a person on trial for a crime proves or attempts to prove being in another place when the alleged act was committed.
2. An excuse, especially one used to avoid responsibility or blame.

1. To provide an alibi for.
2. To provide an excuse for.

Etymology

From the 18th century, from Latin alibī (“elsewhere, at another place”, adverb). Probably after French alibi, which has this use since the late 14th century.