Kneeled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🙏
Add to dictionary

kneeled

[niːld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past action

Kneeled is the past tense of the verb 'kneel'. It means to support one's weight on one's knees, typically for a religious act, ceremony, or as a gesture of submission or respect. This action often conveys humility or a request for forgiveness.

Synonyms

bent, crouched, sank.

Examples of usage

  • She kneeled to pray at the altar.
  • The soldier kneeled in front of his commanding officer.
  • He kneeled down to tie his shoes.
  • In the wedding ceremony, they kneeled for the blessing.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'kneeled'

The word 'kneel' comes from the Old English 'cnēowl', which means to 'bend the knee.' Its roots can be traced back to Proto-Germanic 'knēwō', meaning 'knee', and further back to the Proto-Indo-European root 'genu-', which translates to 'knee.' The usage of the word in various contexts has reflected cultural practices, such as prayer and supplication, which involve kneeling as a sign of reverence or humility. The verb form has existed for centuries, embodying physical postures that engage respect, worship, and submission across different societies.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,156, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.