Votum

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A solemn promise or dedication, often made in a religious context to fulfill a vow or duty
2. An earnest pledge or commitment typically offered in spiritual or religious ceremonies
3. A serious and formal vow, usually expressing devotion or intention in a religious setting

Etymology: In Rome, a "votum" was a conditional bargain struck with a god: if the deity granted a request, the worshipper would deliver something in return, such as an offering, a temple, or a public celebration. Once the favour was granted, the promise had to be honoured, and many votive objects were dedicated to record that a debt had been paid. The noun comes from the verb "vovere", "to vow" or "to promise solemnly", which also produced the Latin "devotus", the source of "devout" and "devote". English has two descendants of the noun. "Vow" came through Old French "vou", which kept the basic sense of a solemn pledge. "Vote" was taken directly from Latin and originally meant a wish or desire. The political sense of choosing by ballot developed later, so the two English words are doublets that split off from one Latin root.