sponsion

noun

spon·​sion

ˈspänchən

plural -s

1

Roman law : suretyship accessory to oral contracts and available only to Roman citizens

2

: the act of becoming surety

especially : a formal pledge made on behalf of another

3

: an act or engagement on behalf of a state undertaken by an agent not specially authorized or by one who exceeds the limits of his authority and requiring for validity ratification by the state

Word History

Etymology

Latin sponsion-, sponsio, literally, solemn promise, pledge, from sponsus (past participle of spondēre to promise solemnly) + -ion-, -io -ion

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