1. to show excessive respect or submission to someone in authority
Usage: often disapproving
2. to kneel and touch the ground with the forehead in worship or submission
Usage: historical; traditional Chinese custom

1. an act of kneeling and touching the ground with the forehead
Usage: historical; traditional Chinese custom

Examples

• The senator refused to kowtow to special interest groups.
• She won’t kowtow to her demanding boss anymore.
• The ambassador performed a traditional kowtow before the emperor.
• He criticized politicians who kowtow to wealthy donors.
• The ancient ritual required visitors to kowtow three times.
• Many employees felt pressured to kowtow to the new manager.
• The diplomatic kowtow was considered a sign of respect.