Genuflected Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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genuflected
[ˈdʒɛnjʊˌflɛktɪd ]
Definition
physical action
To genuflect means to bend one knee to the ground, typically in worship or as a sign of respect. It is an action often associated with religious practices, especially in Christianity, where it signifies humility and reverence. Genuflecting can also be a gesture of respect towards someone of higher social standing.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He genuflected before entering the church.
- The knight genuflected to the king as a sign of loyalty.
- She genuflected every time she passed the altar.
- In some cultures, people genuflect to honor their elders.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'genuflected'
The word 'genuflect' originates from the Latin term 'genuflectere,' which means 'to bend the knee.' The term consists of two parts: 'genu,' meaning 'knee,' and 'flectere,' meaning 'to bend.' Historically, the act of bending the knee has been symbolic of submission or deference, rooted in ancient customs. Genuflection has been a part of various rituals since antiquity, often seen in religious contexts, where it signifies humility before a divine presence. Over time, the term evolved into modern English, retaining its association with respect and devotion in both religious and secular contexts.