kowtow

²kowtow

verb

Definition of KOWTOW

intransitive verb

1

: to show obsequious deference : fawn <kowtows to the boss>

2

: to kneel and touch the forehead to the ground in token of homage, worship, or deep respect

Examples of KOWTOW

1. <you can try kowtowing to the boss, but he'll see right through you>

First Known Use of KOWTOW

1826

Related to KOWTOW

Synonyms: apple-polish, bootlick, fuss, fawn, suck (up), toady, truckle

Related Words: drool, gush, slaver, slobber; endear, ingratiate; court, woo; adulate, idolize, worship; blandish, cajole, coax, flatter, overpraise, soft-soap; cower, cringe, grovel; abase, debase, demean; defer, submit, yield

Near Antonyms: despise, disdain, scorn; gibe (or jibe), jeer, scoff; brave, challenge, defy

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