Bowing is a physical gesture that is used in many cultures around the world. It involves bending the body forward as a sign of respect, greeting, or acknowledgement. Bowing is a common practice in many formal settings, such as religious ceremonies, diplomatic meetings, and martial arts.
Definitions
Bowing is defined as the act of bending the body forward at the waist as a sign of respect or submission. It is a physical gesture that is used to show deference or acknowledgement. Bowing can also refer to the act of bending or curving, as in the case of a bowing tree or a bowing bridge.
Origin
The practice of bowing has been around for thousands of years and is believed to have originated in ancient China. It was initially used as a sign of respect for the emperor and other high-ranking officials. The practice of bowing spread to other parts of Asia, including Japan and Korea, where it became an integral part of their culture.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bowing is defined as “to bend the body forward from the waist as a gesture of respect or submission”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines bowing as “to lower one’s head or body in respect or submission”. The Cambridge English Dictionary defines bowing as “to bend the top part of the body forward as a sign of respect or to thank someone”.
Associations
Bowing is often associated with formal settings, such as religious ceremonies, diplomatic meetings, and martial arts. It is also associated with Asian cultures, where it is a common practice. In some cultures, bowing is seen as a sign of humility and respect, while in others it is seen as a sign of submission.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bowing include:
- Kowtowing.
- Prostrating.
- Bending.
- Curving.
- Inclining.
- Nodding.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of bowing include:
- Standing.
- Sitting.
- Lying down.
- Ignoring.
- Disrespecting.
The same root words
The word “bow” has several different meanings and can be used as a noun or a verb. Some of the same root words as bowing include:
- Bowstring.
- Bowtie.
- Bowlegged.
- Bowshot.
- Bowline.
Example Sentences
- She bowed her head in prayer.
- The martial arts students bowed to their sensei.
- The diplomatic delegation bowed to the king.
- The tree was bowing under the weight of the snow.
- He bowed out of the competition gracefully.