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

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

Choose a small jar candle or votive in a seasonal fragrance like pumpkin chai, smoky cedar, or caramel apple, like TikTok creator Kimberly Vuong (@kimberllyvuong) added to her mini Boo Basket. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Sep. 2025

Noun

Small Brass Bell Candle There’s no such thing as too many candles during the holidays, and this elegant votive deserves a spot in every room. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Oct. 2025

And with the holidays right around the corner, keep in mind that a sweet-smelling scented candle gift makes a lovely present for just about anyone on your list—from a coworker to your votive-loving mom. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 8 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