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

Surround the table centerpiece with more red accents like ornaments on top of candlesticks and a few red votive cups. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Nov. 2025

There’s no limit to the number of candle holders a votive-loving household can have. —Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 7 Oct. 2025

Noun

This votive is a mix of eucalyptus and sandalwood along with Szechuan pepper and fennel to make your space feel fresh and inviting this season. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 10 Nov. 2025

Packaged in a giftable blue box, the scrumptious-smelling votives have a six-hour burn time and will make any space feel as warm and inviting as the popular bakery. —Mark Marino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 Oct. 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