1. to show excessive respect or submission to someone in authority
Usage: past tense of kowtow
2. to kneel and touch the ground with the forehead in worship or submission
Usage: past tense of kowtow; traditional Chinese custom

Examples

• The employees kowtowed to their demanding boss to keep their jobs.
• He kowtowed to peer pressure and changed his opinion.
• The ambassador kowtowed before the emperor as custom required.
• She refused to be kowtowed by the intimidating committee.
• The politician kowtowed to special interest groups for campaign funding.
• In the ancient ceremony, participants kowtowed three times.
• The company kowtowed to public criticism and changed its policy.