I. ˈspau̇səl, -au̇zəl noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English sposail, spousaille, from Middle French espousailles espousal — more at espousal
1. obsolete : the married state : wedlock
2.
a. : the action of espousing especially in marriage
b. : nuptials — usually used in plural
II. adjective
: of, relating to, or celebrating marriage : conjugal , matrimonial , nuptial
spousal rites
a fitting symbol of spousal love — W.H.Gardner
thy spousal bower — Louise Guiney
• spous·al·ly -əlē adverb