How to pronounce votive
Say it like VOH-tiv. Votive has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (VOH).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce votive. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- VOH
- tiv
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Votive pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- VOHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "o" in go.
- tivKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of votive
- The long o starts further forward in British English, closer to "uh-oo" than the American "oh".
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: VOH-tiv.
What does votive mean?
- Dedicated or given in fulfillment of a vow or pledge.“She placed a votive offering at the shrine.”
- 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.“The church was lit by votive candles.”
- a hymn or chant dedicated to a particular saint, or to the Virgin Mary
Where does votive come from?
From Middle French votif, from Latin vōtīvus (“votive”), from vōtum (“vow”).
Words that rhyme with votive
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of votive.
Questions about saying votive
How do you pronounce votive?
Say VOH-tiv. The American pronunciation is /ˈvoʊtɪv/. In British English it is /ˈvəʊtɪv/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in votive?
Votive has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (VOH). Broken into parts: VOH · tiv.
Is votive pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. The long o starts further forward in British English, closer to "uh-oo" than the American "oh". The British form is /ˈvəʊtɪv/ (VOH-tiv).