espousal
espousal · espousals
A betrothalA betrothal.
/əˈspaʊzl̩/
Meaning
3 senses(countable, uncountable)A betrothal.
(countable, uncountable)A wedding ceremony.
archaic terms for a wedding or wedding feast
(countable, uncountable)Adoption of a plan, cause, or idea.
Origin
From Middle English espousal, espousaille, from Old French espousailles, from Latin sponsaFrom Middle English espousal, espousaille, from Old French espousailles, from Latin sponsalia (“a betrothal”), neuter plural of sponsalis, from spōnsus (“one betrothed, a spouse”); see spouse. By surface analysis, espouse + -al.
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Forms
plural: espousalsSynonyms
5 synonymsClose in meaning
- the act of becoming betrothed or engaged:betrothal
- archaic terms for a wedding or wedding feast:bridal
- the act of accepting with approval; favorable reception:adoptionacceptanceacceptation
Word family
4 related wordsDerivednonespousal
Lessons for this word
1 lessons- A1Countable and uncountable nouns — Because it can be uncountable