kowtow
Say it: kow-TOW /ˌkaʊˈtaʊ/ · verb
What “kowtow” means
Be far too obedient or flattering towards someone powerful.
More precisely: To act in an overly humble, obedient way towards someone powerful.
Example: “I refuse to kowtow to a client who's rude to my staff.”
When to use it
Use it critically when someone bends too readily to a powerful person's wishes. It suggests excessive obedience and lost dignity.
Similar words
grovel, bow and scrape, toady
Where it comes from
Chinese kētóu, 'knock the head', a bow touching the forehead to the ground.
Quick check
A manager praises every absurd demand from the owner and immediately obeys, despite knowing better. What does the manager do?
compromise or kowtow?
Show the answer
kowtow
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