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Origin and history of votive

votive(adj.)

1590s, "dedicated or given in fulfillment of a vow," from French votif, from Latin votivus "of or pertaining to a vow, promised by a vow, conforming to one's wishes," from votum "that which is promised" (see vow (n.)).

also from 1590s

Entries linking to votive

vow(n.)

c. 1200, "solemn engagement to devote oneself to a religious order or life;" by c. 1300 as "a solemn promise," usually to God or a saint, to do something or make a change, typically in expectation of reward; from Anglo-French and Old French voe (Modern French vœu), from Latin votum "a promise to a god, solemn pledge, dedication; that which is promised; a wish, desire, longing, prayer," noun use of neuter of votus, past participle of vovere "to promise solemnly, pledge, dedicate, vow."

This is reconstructed to be from PIE root *wegwh- "to speak solemnly, vow, preach" (source also of Sanskrit vaghat- "one who offers a sacrifice;" Greek eukhē "vow, wish," eukhomai "I pray").

Also "bind oneself" to chastity (early 14c.).

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