What does the term "incriminate" mean?

The term "incriminate" specifically refers to the act of accusing oneself or another person of involvement in a crime. In legal contexts, when someone incriminates themselves, they provide evidence or testimony that indicates their own culpability in a criminal act. This can have significant implications in both legal proceedings and personal circumstances.

Understanding this term is crucial for anyone working in legal settings, as it relates closely to the concepts of self-incrimination and the rights of individuals during investigations or court proceedings. The other choices do not capture the essence of the term; clearing oneself from guilt or supporting a friend's alibi involves exoneration or denial of wrongdoing rather than implicating oneself or others in criminal activity. Witnessing an event does not inherently involve accusations or implications of crime, making it unrelated to the definition of "incriminate."