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Word of the Day Wednesday, June 10, 2026

kowtowing

/kəʊˈtuːəʊɪŋ/ noun · British & US
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What does kowtowing mean?

noun

The act of showing excessive respect or submission, often in a servile or insincere manner. The act of bowing or kneeling in a gesture of respect, especially in Chinese culture.

Example

"The politician's kowtowing to the powerful businessman was seen as a betrayal of his constituents."

Definition generated by AI and curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Synonyms for kowtowing

Antonyms of kowtowing

Rhymes with kowtowing

Etymologically related