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 Casas del Turuñuelo archaeological site, in the municipality of Guareña, has turned up a remarkable specimen, an extraordinary bronze votive chariot, the likes of which has never been uncovered in the Iberian Peninsula. — Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 25 June 2026

Seat #2 ran her hand over the white tablecloth and gazed through the dining room then at the square brass votive in the center of the table. — Literary Hub, 25 Feb. 2026

Noun

Let this serve as your reminder that a sweet-smelling scented candle makes a lovely present for just about any favorite coworker, significant other, your votive-loving mom, or yourself. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 7 Oct. 2026

Taper candles are a quintessential fall decor accent, and this set of five festive votives fits right in with both Halloween and Thanksgiving displays. — Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Sep. 2026

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