espouse
UK: ɪˈspaʊz | US: ɪˈspaʊz
vt. to adopt or support a cause, idea, or belief
vt. (archaic) to marry or take as a spouse
The word "espouse" originates from the Old French espouser, derived from Latin sponsare (to pledge), which itself comes from sponsus (pledged, betrothed). The prefix e- (a variant of ex-, meaning "out") intensifies the action, giving the sense of "pledging outwardly" or "publicly committing." Over time, the meaning expanded from the literal act of marriage to metaphorical support for ideas or causes, reflecting the idea of binding oneself to something.
She chose to espouse environmental conservation as her life's mission.
The politician espouses policies that benefit the working class.
In the novel, the protagonist espouses a philosophy of radical honesty.
(Archaic) The king espoused a noblewoman to strengthen his alliance.
Many activists espouse nonviolence as the only path to lasting change.