Kneel: meaning, definitions and examples

To go down on one or both knees, often used in prayer, submission, or respect.

• She knelt down to pray
• The knight knelt before the king

To bend the upper part of the body as a gesture of respect, greeting, or acknowledgment.

• He bowed when introduced to the queen
• They bow at the end of their performance

To lie face down on the ground in a position of submission, reverence, or exhaustion.

• The monks prostrated themselves in prayer
• He was prostrate with grief

To bend one knee to the ground, often in religious contexts, as an act of reverence.

• The congregation genuflected before entering the pew
• She genuflected at the altar

Mentioned twice but commonly understood as the above explanation.

• She kneels down to tie her shoes
• The soldier kneels to propose to his partner

Can describe giving way to pressure or giving up control, often in a less forceful manner than 'surrender'. Also used in contexts like traffic and decision-making.

• She had to yield to the demands of the committee
• Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks

Utilized to describe giving up in a conflict or admitting defeat. It can be used in military contexts, as well as everyday situations where someone gives in.

• The army decided to surrender after realizing they were outnumbered
• After a long argument, he finally surrendered and agreed to her terms

Used in a more forceful and negative context to describe the act of bringing someone under domination or control, often by conquest. It's often used in historical or political contexts.

• The empire sought to subjugate the neighboring countries
• The conquerors aimed to subjugate the indigenous population

This word is often used when someone lowers their body so that one or both knees are on the ground, typically to show respect, prayer, or submission.

• He knelt before the queen to receive his knighthood.
• The children knelt to pray before going to bed.

This word refers to bending down with knees and body close to the ground, often to hide, prepare for action, or avoid something. It can imply a sense of readiness or alertness.

• The cat crouched low, ready to pounce on its prey.
• He had to crouch to avoid hitting his head on the low ceiling.

This word describes a position where someone lowers their body close to the ground by bending their knees, often with a sense of stability or balance. It's commonly used for exercises or when there is no chair available.

• He squatted to lift the heavy box from the floor.
• The villagers squatted around the fire, discussing the day's events.

This word is used when someone rests their weight on their bottom, usually on a chair or another flat surface, with their back upright. It's a common posture for relaxation, working, or attending events.

• She sat on the chair by the window, reading a book.
• Please sit down and make yourself comfortable.