votive

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   offered, dedicated, or performed in fulfillment of a vow or as an expression of devotion

   Pilgrims left a votive tablet at the shrine in gratitude for the healing.

2. 2
   noun

   a small candle lit as an offering or accompaniment to prayer

   She placed a votive beside the icon and stood silently for a moment.

From Middle French votif and Latin votivus, 'promised by a vow,' from votum, 'vow, wish, or dedication.' The word first described offerings and rites made pursuant to a vow and later became the common shortened name for a votive candle.

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