kotow Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a former Chinese custom of touching the ground with the forehead as a sign of respect or submission
kowtow.
verb try to gain favor by cringing or flattering
fawn; kowtow; bootlick; toady; suck up; truckle.
- He is always kowtowing to his boss

Chinese, knock head.

The prostration made by mandarins and others to their superiors, either as homage or worship, by knocking the forehead on the ground. There are degrees in the rite, the highest being expressed by three knockings. China now kowtow S. W. Williams.

imperfect & past participle Kotowed ; present participle & verbal noun Kotowing