kowtow meaning and definition

KOWTOW noun

Definition of kowtow (noun)

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

KOWTOW verb

Definition of kowtow (verb)

1. bend the knees and bow in a servile manner
   • synonyms: genuflect, scrape
2. try to gain favor by cringing or flattering
   • "He is always kowtowing to his boss"
   • synonyms: bootlick, fawn, kotow, suck up, toady, truckle