bow

bow · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A weapon for shooting arrows, consisting of a curved piece of wood with a taut string.

  2. 2.

    A knot tied with two loops and two loose ends, used for decoration.

  3. 3.

    A rod with horsehair stretched along it, used for playing stringed instruments.

  4. 4.

    The front section of a ship or boat.

  5. 5.

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

  6. 6.

    To bend or curve downward.

Forms

plural: bows

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bow and arrow — the weapon system for archery
  • •
    bow down — to show deep respect or submission
  • •
    take a bow — to acknowledge applause
  • •
    bow out — to withdraw gracefully

Related words

See also: arrow, bows, curtsy
Synonyms: arc, curtsy, ribbon

Etymology

Two different origins: (1) Noun (weapon, knot, etc.) from Old English "boga" (arch, bow), related to "bugan" (to bend); (2) Verb (bend body) from Old English "bugan" (to bow, bend).