espousal Definition

espouse
verb espoused, espousing

1. formal
To adopt or give one's support to (a cause, etc).
Thesaurus: support, advocate, defend, adopt, patronize, embrace, back, champion.
2. old use
To marry, or to give (eg a daughter) in marriage.
Thesaurus: marry, wed, betroth.

Derivative: espousal

formal
The act of espousing (a cause, etc).
Thesaurus: support, adoption, advocacy, defence, championing, aid, backing.

old use
A marriage or engagement.
Thesaurus: marriage, wedding, nuptials, engagement, betrothal, matrimony.

Etymology: 15c: from French espouser to marry.