espousal

noun

es·​pous·​al i-ˈspau̇-zəl How to pronounce espousal (audio)
also -səl
Synonyms of espousalnext
1
a
: betrothal
b
: wedding
c
: marriage
2
: a taking up or adopting and supporting of a cause or belief

Synonyms of espousal

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Examples of espousal in a Sentence

the expected espousal of the Hollywood actor and the singing superstar should attract the elite of show business considering how long her previous marriage lasted, she'd be wise to have an extended espousal
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Scorsese’s public espousal of this technology marks the latest shift in attitude about AI from powerful Hollywood creatives. — Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2026 The Trump administration is also unwinding another key tool of American soft power: the country’s espousal of liberal democratic values. — Robert O. Keohane, Foreign Affairs, 2 June 2025 Supporting Yoon’s impeachment, Lee has also condemned Yoon’s unconstitutional abuse of martial law and espousal of election fraud conspiracy theory. — Jong Eun Lee, The Conversation, 29 May 2025 The actually existing transatlantic relationship has long been based on a common espousal of liberal democracy, built on the legacy of defeating fascism in World War II. — Arash Azizi, The Atlantic, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for espousal

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of espousal was in the 14th century

Rhymes for espousal

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Browse Nearby Words

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espousal
espouse
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Cite this Entry

“Espousal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/espousal. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

espousal

noun
es·​pous·​al is-ˈpau̇-zəl How to pronounce espousal (audio)
also -səl
1
a
: wedding
b
: the act of becoming engaged : state of being engaged
2
: a taking up of a cause or belief as a supporter
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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