kneel

kneel · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To be in or assume a position in which the body is supported by a knee or the knees.

  2. 2.

    To show submission or respect by kneeling.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    kneel down — lower oneself to a kneeling position
  • •
    kneel before — show submission or reverence to

Related words

Antonyms: rise, stand
See also: knee, kneeling, knees
Synonyms: bow, genuflect

Etymology

From Old English cneowlian, from cneo ("knee"). Related to German knien.