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

Even if Reagan made a hard right politically during those years (ultimately winning the California governorship in 1966), the votive features of his faith continued to shape his public service. —Richard D. Mahoney, JSTOR Daily, 30 Apr. 2025

Other rare finds at the site include a small bronze panther, a mosaic glass spindle whorl, and a tuff — or rock — votive, according to the release. —Lauren Liebhaber, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2025

Noun

Then arrange votives, or candles in hurricanes, on a table for a warm glow. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 May 2025

This balancing act is executed by a design with ample deep blue-hued banquettes, warm lighting inspired by French brassieres, amber votives on every table and upholstered walls. —Spencer Whaley, Forbes, 20 Mar. 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