Origin and history of devotion

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.).

1640s, "pertaining to religious devotion;" see devotion + -al (1). The noun meaning "devotional composition" is recorded from 1650s. Related: Devotionally.