n. | 1. | The prostration made by mandarins and others to their superiors, either as homage or worship, by knocking the forehead on the ground; same as Kotow. There are degrees in the rite, the highest being expressed by three knockings. |
v. i. | 1. | To perform the kowtow. Same as Kotow |
Noun | 1. | kowtow - a former Chinese custom of touching the ground with the forehead as a sign of respect or submission Synonyms: kotow |
Verb | 1. | kowtow - bend the knees and bow in a servile manner |
2. | kowtow - try to gain favor by cringing or flattering; "He is always kowtowing to his boss" |