espousal

[ ih-spou-zuhl, -suhl ]

noun

1. adoption or advocacy, as of a cause or principle.
2. Sometimes espousals.
   1. a marriage ceremony.
   2. an engagement or betrothal celebration.

espousal

/ ɪˈspaʊzəl /

noun

1. adoption or support

   an espousal of new beliefs

2. archaic.
   sometimes plural a marriage or betrothal ceremony

Other Words From

• nones·pousal noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of espousal¹

1275–1325; Middle English espousaille < Middle French, Old French espousailles < Latin spōnsālia (noun use of neuter plural of spōnsālis ), equivalent to spōns ( us ) spouse + -ālia -al ²

Example Sentences

General Lee's flight was a sad ending to his earnest hopes and faithful espousal of the cause which he believed right.

From Project Gutenberg

They have embraced the Christian religion, and appear devout in their espousal of Christian doctrines.

From Project Gutenberg

Punch's espousal of the cause of Dreyfus became increasingly vehement and provocative.

From Project Gutenberg

His espousal of the cause of Edgar the Atheling led the Conqueror to regard him with suspicion.

From Project Gutenberg

She was convinced, in her own mind, that the Honorable Atkins had some hidden motive for his espousal of the Thomas cause.

From Project Gutenberg