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

Kerényi shows how the pomegranate goes beyond a mere religious symbol, noting its role as an object of worship as evidenced by votive offerings of terracotta pomegranates in one of Hera’s sanctuaries. —Demir Alp, JSTOR Daily, 29 Aug. 2025

Hanging from the ceiling, faded and dust-caked but unmistakable, was the old red votive Vega that once hung at Kennedy. —Laurie Gwen Shapiro, Smithsonian Magazine, 29 July 2025

Noun

Tyawon Flameless Gold Candles 3-Pack These classy, flameless votives bring all the cozy fall vibes—and can be left up on the mantel all year long thanks to their versatility. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2025

For many people, though, fried chicken votives are an overreach. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 2 July 2025

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

Rhymes for votive

• motive
• automotive
• locomotive
• electromotive
• emotive
• promotive

Kids Definition

votive

adjective

vo·​tive ˈvōt-iv 

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

a votive prayer