What does votively mean?
Votively is an adverb meaning in a votive manner: as a devotional act, offering, or expression of devotion, especially one made because of a vow or promise. It is most often associated with religious language and practices, including votive candles, votive offerings, and votive masses. When someone prays votively, the description indicates that the prayer is offered as an act of devotion or in fulfillment of a promise, not merely as a general expression of hope. The word has a formal, ceremonial tone and is much less common in everyday conversation than words such as devotedly or devoted to. Its specialized character makes it especially useful when describing acts of religious commitment, commemoration, or the fulfillment of vows, while its Latin inheritance connects its contemporary religious sense with the ancient idea of a vow or solemn promise.
adverbIn the manner of a votive offering or act of devotion, especially one made in fulfillment of a vow.
- In a votive or devotional capacity; as an offering or act made in fulfillment of a vow.
"The congregation prayed votively for the healing of those who were ill."
"They offered the gift votively, in accordance with their promise."
"The chapel was dedicated votively to the memory of its benefactors."
A votive offering turns a promise into a visible act of devotion: the vow is not only spoken but fulfilled.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of votively
The adverb votively derives from votive, which comes from Latin votivus, meaning dedicated by a vow or offered in fulfillment of a vow. Votivus was formed from votum, the Latin noun for a vow, wish, or prayer. The same root underlies related English words such as vote, votary, vow, and votive.
How votively is actually used
Votively is a formal and relatively uncommon word, chiefly used in religious, devotional, or ceremonial contexts. It is more often encountered in specialist expressions such as votive mass, votive candle, and votive offering than as a general adverb.
Easily confused with votively
Voluntarily means willingly or by choice, whereas votively means as a devotional act or in fulfillment of a vow.