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

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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

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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 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 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 He has been both praised and widely criticized for his espousal of the necessity of traditional gender roles. David Marchese David Marchese Photograph By Mamadi Doumbouya, New York Times, 21 Sep. 2023 First elected to Congress in 2020, Greene drew criticism for her espousal of extremist beliefs and using racist and antisemitic rhetoric. Shannon Larson, BostonGlobe.com, 18 Jan. 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for espousal
Noun
  • In time, marriages with junior Bourbon houses would also be arranged for three of Antonia’s sisters, while three others, within the Austrian Netherlands and the crown lands of Hungary, Bohemia, and Austria itself, would serve the dynasty’s long‑term project of centralizing its power.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 26 Mar. 2026
  • Hamilton said the measure would not impact marriages between minors who were married before Nov. 1, when the law takes effect.
    Barbara Hoberock, Oklahoma Voice, 26 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Democrats have continued to rail against the president for his handling of the war, while some Republicans have said that their support could run out if the war doesn't end before the 60-day mark — the cap on any unauthorized engagements under the 1973 War Powers Resolution.
    Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 12 Apr. 2026
  • Her independent fine jewelry line includes engagement rings, wedding bands, and one-of-a-kind stunners.
    Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The Nordqusts find their wedding album amid the rubble.
    Luzdelia Caballero, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2026
  • RadarOnline is reporting that as the King and Queen celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary, the occasion was overshadowed by grief.
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 10 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Espousal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/espousal. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.

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