O
AI-generated image

kowtow

/kəʊˈtaʊ/ verb · British & US
Valid in UKValid in US
Share WhatsApp

What does kowtow mean?

verb

To show respect or submission by kneeling and touching the head to the ground, or to give in to someone's demands or opinions without question. To act in a servile or submissive manner.

Example

"The politician was accused of kowtowing to the corporate donors."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Words that share this root

What's another word for kowtow?

What's the opposite of kowtow?

Rhymes with kowtow