Prostration: meaning, definitions and examples

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prostration

[ prɒˈstreɪʃən ]

^{Context #1}

feeling of extreme physical weakness or exhaustion

Prostration refers to the state of extreme physical weakness or exhaustion, often resulting in the inability to move or perform normal activities. It is characterized by a complete lack of energy and strength, often accompanied by feelings of fatigue and lethargy. Prostration can be caused by a variety of factors, including illness, dehydration, or overexertion.

Synonyms

exhaustion, fatigue, weakness

Examples of usage

I collapsed in a state of prostration after running a marathon.
The intense heat left me in a state of prostration, unable to even lift a finger.

^{Context #2}

act of bowing down in submission or reverence

Prostration can also refer to the act of bowing down in submission or reverence. It is a physical gesture of humility, respect, or worship, often performed in religious or ceremonial contexts. Prostration is a common practice in many cultures and religions, symbolizing surrender, devotion, or acknowledgment of a higher power.

Synonyms

bowing, kneeling, submission

Examples of usage

The monk performed a prostration before the Buddha statue.
The soldiers knelt in prostration before their commanding officer.

Translations

Translations of the word "prostration" in other languages:

🇵🇹 prostração

🇮🇳 शरीर झुकाना

🇩🇪 Niederwerfung

🇮🇩 sujud

🇺🇦 прострація

🇵🇱 prostracja

🇯🇵 平伏

🇫🇷 prosternation

🇪🇸 postración

🇹🇷 secde

🇰🇷 절

🇸🇦 سجود

🇨🇿 prostrace

🇸🇰 prostrácia

🇨🇳 跪拜

🇸🇮 prostracija

🇮🇸 hrun

🇰🇿 сәжде

🇬🇪 მუხლმოდრეკა

🇦🇿 səcdə

🇲🇽 postración

Word origin

The word 'prostration' has its origins in the Latin word 'prostratus', which means 'thrown down'. The concept of physically collapsing or bowing down in submission has been a part of human culture and religious practices for centuries. In various traditions, prostration is seen as a sign of respect, humility, or devotion. The physical act of prostration can be a powerful symbol of surrendering one's ego or will to a higher authority or divine being.