Which of the following terms means deserving of blame?

The term that means deserving of blame is "culpable." This word originates from Latin, where it conveys the idea of being at fault or responsible for a wrongdoing or crime. When someone is described as culpable, it suggests that they have engaged in actions that could lead to criticism or punishment, thereby highlighting their accountability for those actions.

In contrast, the other options define states or conditions that do not align with the notion of blameworthiness. "Innocent" refers to being free from guilt or wrongdoing, indicating a lack of responsibility for any negative actions. "Exonerated" means to be cleared from blame or accusation, which directly opposes the concept of being culpable. "Praiseworthy" describes someone or something deserving of admiration or positive recognition, which is again at odds with the notion of blame. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why "culpable" is the correct term for deserving of blame.