D defs.my
Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913

Espousal

· Es·pous·al · IPA
01 n. The act of espousing or betrothing; especially, in the plural, betrothal; plighting of the troths; a contract of marriage; sometimes, the m…
  1. 1.
    The act of espousing or betrothing; especially, in the plural, betrothal; plighting of the troths; a contract of marriage; sometimes, the marriage ceremony.
  2. 2.
    The uniting or allying one's self with anything; maintenance; adoption; as, the espousal of a quarrel.
    “The open espousal of his cause.” — Lord Orford.