Definition of 'kowtow'

Noun

1. a former Chinese custom of touching the ground with the forehead as a sign of respect or submission
      Synonyms: kotow

Verb

1. bend the knees and bow in a servile manner
      Synonyms: scrape genuflect
2. try to gain favor by cringing or flattering; "He is always kowtowing to his boss"
      Synonyms: fawn toady truckle bootlick kotow suck up

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