votive

1 of 2

adjective

vo·​tive ˈvō-tiv 

1

: consisting of or expressing a vow, wish, or desire

a votive prayer

2

: offered or performed in fulfillment of a vow or in gratitude or devotion

votively adverb

votiveness noun

votive

2 of 2

noun

plural votives

: a short thick candle used especially as a prayer offering or for decoration : votive candle

… I will light a votive for those who need affordable housing and pray their needs are met.

—Mary Pat Rowland

A simple picture-propping shelf can display votives and flowers.

—Nancy Sotomayor

compare vigil light

Examples of votive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The votive altar dates to the 1st century CE, from the Roman period, and experts believe it was dedicated to Larrahe, an ancient Basque deity. —The Editors Of Artnews, ARTnews.com, 20 June 2024

These types of ancient Roman altars, sometimes referred to as votive altars, were intended to stand upright and serve as an offering site, the society said. —Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 17 June 2024

Noun

Each cream votive is 5 inches tall and will fit in with most styles and aesthetics. —Addie Morton, Southern Living, 28 Nov. 2023

Glass Christmas trees, candle votives, and other seasonal decor elements are also popular choices for holiday decor. —Emily Vanschmus, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Nov. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin votivus, from votum vow

First Known Use

Adjective

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1956, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing votive

• votive candle
• votive mass

Kids Definition

votive

adjective

vo·​tive ˈvōt-iv 

: consisting of or expressing a vow, wish, or desire

a votive prayer