espousal

noun

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

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.
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 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

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Espousal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/espousal. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

espousal

noun
es·​pous·​al is-ˈpau̇-zəl How to pronounce espousal (audio)
 also  -səl
1
a
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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