kotow
nounA knocking of the forehead on the ground while kneeling, as an act of homage, reverence, worship, respect, etc.
To knock the forehead on the ground while kneeling, as an act of reverence, worship, apology, etc.; perform the kotow; hence, to fawn or be obsequious; cringe.
nounThe prostration made by mandarins and others to their superiors, either as homage or worship, by knocking the forehead on the ground; a kowtow. There are degrees in the rite, the highest being expressed by three knockings.
intransitive verbTo perform the kotow. Now usually spelled
Alternative spelling of
Alternative spelling of
a former Chinese custom of touching the ground with the forehead as a sign of respect or submission
verbtry to gain favor by cringing or flattering
