# votive

> English word · Adjective · IPA /ˈvəʊ.tɪv/ · frequency rank #50,313

## Definitions
1. Dedicated or given in fulfillment of a vow or pledge.
2. Of, expressing, or symbolizing a vow. Often used to describe thick cylindrical candles found in many churches, lit when making a private vow or asking a private intention.

## Etymology
From Middle French votif, from Latin vōtīvus (“votive”), from vōtum (“vow”).

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/votive