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Kowtowed: meaning, definitions and examples

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kowtowed

 

[ ˈkaʊˌtaʊd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

submission, obedience

Kowtowed refers to the act of showing excessive respect or submission, often through a physical gesture of kneeling or bowing deeply. This term historically indicates a profound level of respect and subservience, typically in hierarchical societies. It is often used in contexts where individuals display extreme deference to authority figures or leaders. The action is rooted in cultural practices that emphasize respect for elders or superiors, especially in Asian cultures.

Synonyms

fawned, groveled, submitted, yielded

Examples of usage

  • He kowtowed to the demands of his boss.
  • The officials kowtowed before the emperor.
  • In some cultures, it is customary to kowtow when greeting elders.

Translations

Translations of the word "kowtowed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 submetido

🇮🇳 झुकना

🇩🇪 kniend

🇮🇩 menyembah

🇺🇦 поклонитися

🇵🇱 uklonić się

🇯🇵 ひざまずく

🇫🇷 se prosterner

🇪🇸 inclinarse

🇹🇷 secde etmek

🇰🇷 무릎을 꿇다

🇸🇦 ركع

🇨🇿 poklonit se

🇸🇰 pokloniť sa

🇨🇳 叩头

🇸🇮 pokloniti se

🇮🇸 bjóða

🇰🇿 бас игу

🇬🇪 დაბრძანება

🇦🇿 baş əymək

🇲🇽 inclinarse

Word origin

The term 'kowtow' originates from the Chinese word '叩头' (kòutóu), which means 'to knock one's head'. It historically referred to a ritualistic gesture performed in front of a superior, where the individual kneels and touches their forehead to the ground. This practice was prevalent in imperial China, where it symbolized absolute submission and respect for the rulers and ancestors. The concept of kowtowing began to spread to the West in the 19th century, particularly during interactions between Western powers and Eastern cultures. In English, its meaning has evolved to encompass any form of excessive deference, not just the physical act, and is often used in a derogatory sense to imply submissive behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,162, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.