What does the cryptic crossword clue "Absolve former partner before single judge (9)" mean?

The definition is "Absolve". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). EX (synonym of "former partner") + ONE (synonym of "single") + RATE (synonym of "judge"); definition: "Absolve" The answer is EXONERATE.

Absolve former partner before single judge (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29058 | 6 Down | 2023-05-01 flower

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