Definition of espousalnext
1
as in marriage
a ceremony in which two people are united in matrimony the expected espousal of the Hollywood actor and the singing superstar should attract the elite of show business

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in engagement
the act or state of being engaged to be married considering how long her previous marriage lasted, she'd be wise to have an extended espousal

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of espousal 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 Even China’s espousal of free trade is closely tied to its status as a manufacturing juggernaut. — Ann Scott Tyson, Christian Science Monitor, 31 Mar. 2026 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 The tradition is an espousal of values, holding space for connection and unhurried conversation. — Olivia Schellenberg, Travel + Leisure, 23 Oct. 2024 The 24-year-old is part of a community of women who have gained popularity — and notoriety — online for their espousal of what can feel like antiquated dating guidance. — Angela Yang, NBC News, 18 Mar. 2024
Recent Examples of Synonyms for espousal
Noun
  • During a recent trip to Hawaii to celebrate her friend, Jennifer Meyer's wedding, the 62-year-old actress was spotted enjoying a day at the beach.
    — Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Being dressed by Anderson was another special touch, given that the designer was the talent behind Swift’s top-secret wedding dress.
    — Christian Allaire, Vogue, 18 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • These platforms aren’t necessarily focused on helping consumers build healthy financial habits to build long-term wealth; instead, they’re primarily focused on engagement and dopamine.
    — Aneri Jambusaria, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Through the program, this year’s Rising Stars will connect with industry leaders and take part in the festival’s main activities, from panel discussions and media engagements to the red carpet.
    — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 18 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Espousal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/espousal. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!