genuflect
UK: ˈdʒen.ju.flekt | US: ˈdʒen.ju.flekt
vi. to bend the knee or touch one knee to the ground, especially in worship or as a sign of respect
The word genuflect originates from Latin genuflectere, a combination of genu (knee) and flectere (to bend). It literally means "to bend the knee," reflecting the physical act of kneeling in reverence or submission. The term entered English in the 16th century, primarily in religious contexts, where it described a gesture of humility before sacred objects or figures. Over time, its usage expanded to secular respect, though it remains strongly tied to ceremonial or devotional settings.
The worshippers genuflect before entering the pew.
Knights would genuflect before their king as a sign of loyalty.
She genuflected briefly at the altar before lighting a candle.
In some cultures, it is customary to genuflect when greeting elders.
The diplomat genuflected slightly as a gesture of deference to the visiting dignitary.