ESPOUSAL

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does espousal mean? 

• ESPOUSAL (noun)
  The noun ESPOUSAL has 3 senses:

1. archaic terms for a wedding or wedding feast

2. the act of becoming betrothed or engaged

3. the act of accepting with approval; favorable reception

  Familiarity information: ESPOUSAL used as a noun is uncommon.

 Dictionary entry details 

• ESPOUSAL (noun)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Archaic terms for a wedding or wedding feast

Classified under:

Nouns denoting acts or actions

Synonyms:

bridal; espousal

Hypernyms ("espousal" is a kind of...):

marriage; marriage ceremony; wedding (the act of marrying; the nuptial ceremony)

Sense 2

Meaning:

The act of becoming betrothed or engaged

Classified under:

Nouns denoting acts or actions

Synonyms:

betrothal; espousal

Hypernyms ("espousal" is a kind of...):

rite; ritual (any customary observance or practice)

Sense 3

Meaning:

The act of accepting with approval; favorable reception

Classified under:

Nouns denoting acts or actions

Synonyms:

acceptance; acceptation; adoption; espousal

Context example:

the proposal found wide acceptance

Hypernyms ("espousal" is a kind of...):

approval; approving; blessing (the formal act of approving)

Hyponyms (each of the following is a kind of "espousal"):

bosom; embrace (a close affectionate and protective acceptance)

Derivation:

espouse (choose and follow; as of theories, ideas, policies, strategies or plans)