English dictionary

kowtow

noun

Pronunciation

ˈkaʊˌtaʊ

Audio pronunciation

Parts of speech

Definitions

noun

  1. a former Chinese custom of touching the ground with the forehead as a sign of respect or submission

verb

  1. try to gain favor by cringing or flattering

verb

  1. bend the knees and bow in a servile manner

Example sentences

He is always kowtowing to his boss

Synonyms

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