espousal

/ɪˈspaʊzəl/

Other forms: espousals

When you speak up in favor of something or support a cause, that's espousal. Your espousal of energy conservation can be seen in your electric car and the solar panels on your house.

Espousal of one political candidate over another can be expressed with a sign in your yard or a big financial contribution to the campaign. During a debate, each person adopts the espousal of one strong viewpoint and then they argue with each other. In the old days, an espousal was an engagement or a wedding — gaining a spouse, in other words. This is the original meaning, with the figurative "married to principles" definition dating from about 1670.

Definitions of espousal

1. noun

   the act of accepting with approval; favorable reception
   synonyms: acceptance, acceptation, adoption

   types:

   bosom, embrace

   a close affectionate and protective acceptance

   type of:

   approval, approving, blessing

   the formal act of approving
2. noun

   the act of becoming betrothed or engaged
   synonyms: betrothal

   type of:

   rite, ritual

   any customary observance or practice
3. noun

   archaic terms for a wedding or wedding feast
   synonyms: bridal

   type of:

   marriage, marriage ceremony, wedding

   the act of marrying; the nuptial ceremony