Espouse: meaning, definitions and examples

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espouse

 

[ ɪˈspaʊz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

support a cause

To espouse means to adopt or support a particular cause, belief, or way of life. When someone espouses a belief, they commit to it and promote it actively. This term is often used in contexts related to social issues, politics, or personal philosophies. It indicates a strong allegiance to the idea being supported.

Synonyms

advocate, embrace, promote, support.

Examples of usage

  • She espoused the principles of sustainability in her new project.
  • The organization espouses a commitment to human rights.
  • He espoused the values of equality and justice throughout his career.

Translations

Translations of the word "espouse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 esposar

🇮🇳 पति बनाना

🇩🇪 ehelichen

🇮🇩 mengawini

🇺🇦 одружитися

🇵🇱 poślubić

🇯🇵 結婚する

🇫🇷 épouser

🇪🇸 esposar

🇹🇷 evlenmek

🇰🇷 결혼하다

🇸🇦 يتزوج

🇨🇿 oženit se

🇸🇰 oženiť sa

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 poročiti se

🇮🇸 giftast

🇰🇿 некеге тұру

🇬🇪 დაქორწინება

🇦🇿 evlənmək

🇲🇽 casarse

Etymology

The term 'espouse' originates from the Old French word 'espouser,' meaning to marry or betroth, which itself comes from the Latin word 'sponsare,' derived from 'spondeo,' meaning to promise or pledge. Historically, the word was associated with the act of taking on a spouse, thus extending its meaning to include adopting or pledging oneself to beliefs or causes. In contemporary usage, 'espouse' has retained this notion of commitment, emphasizing the active support of ideas rather than just a passive agreement. Over time, it has evolved from its marital connotations to be widely applied in social, political, and cultural contexts, reflecting a commitment to various ideals or causes.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,780, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.