bow (B1)

verb

Pronunciation: /boʊ/

Definition

To bend the head or upper body forward as a sign of respect, greeting, or shame.

Examples

• The performers bowed to the cheering crowd.

• He bowed politely to the queen.

• She bowed her head in prayer.

How to Use bow

bow to (prepositional phrase)

To bend the body to show respect or submission to someone or something. — "The crowd bowed to the queen."

bow out (phrasal verb)

To withdraw from a competition or activity. — "He decided to bow out of the race due to injury."

Synonyms of bow

Words with a similar meaning to bow:

• curtsy
• nod
• bend
• stoop

Antonyms of bow

Words with the opposite meaning to bow:

• stand
• straighten

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