Associations to the word «Kowtow»

Wiktionary

KOWTOW, verb. (intransitive) To kneel and bow low enough to touch one’s forehead to the ground.
KOWTOW, verb. (intransitive) To bow very deeply.
KOWTOW, verb. (intransitive) (figuratively) To act in a very submissive manner.
KOWTOW, noun. The act of kowtowing.

Dictionary definition

KOWTOW, noun. A former Chinese custom of touching the ground with the forehead as a sign of respect or submission.
KOWTOW, verb. Bend the knees and bow in a servile manner.
KOWTOW, verb. Try to gain favor by cringing or flattering; "He is always kowtowing to his boss".

Wise words

Wisdom does not show itself so much in precept as in life - in firmness of mind and a mastery of appetite. It teaches us to do, as well as talk, and to make our words and actions all of a color.
Lucius Annaeus Seneca