to bow
Pronunciation
/baʊ/

Definition & Meaning of "bow"in English

to bow
01

to bend the head or move the upper half of the body forward to show respect or as a way of greeting

Intransitive
to bow definition and meaning
Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
Movement verb
Regular
Present tense
bow
3rd person singular
bows
Present participle
bowing
Past simple
bowed
Past participle
bowed
02

to yield or submit to another person's wish, authority, or opinion

Intransitive: to bow to a wish or opinion
03

to play a musical instrument, typically a stringed one, using a narrow, slightly curved stick

Transitive: to bow a piece of music
04

to express thanks, agreement, or other sentiments by bending one's head respectfully

Transitive: to bow a sentiment
Bow
01

a knot with two loops and loose ends, commonly used to fasten shoelaces or ribbons

bow definition and meaning
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
bows

What is a "bow"?

A bow is a decorative element that is commonly used on clothing items such as dresses, blouses, and shirts. It is typically made from a piece of fabric that is folded and sewn in a loop, creating two ends that extend outwards. The bow can be positioned in a variety of ways, including at the neckline, waist, or on the back of the garment. It can be made in various sizes and colors to suit the style and design of the clothing item, and is often used to add a touch of femininity or elegance to an outfit. Bows can also be made from materials such as ribbon, lace, or leather, depending on the desired look and feel of the garment.

02

a long and partially curved, thin rod made out of wood with horsehair strings stretched alongside it, used to play stringed instruments such as the cello and violin

bow definition and meaning

What is a "bow"?

A bow is a tool used to play stringed instruments by drawing it across the strings. It typically consists of a slender, curved stick made from wood or synthetic materials, with a ribbon of horsehair or synthetic fibers stretched between its ends. When the bow is moved across the strings, it creates friction that causes the strings to vibrate, producing sound. Bows are commonly used with instruments like the violin, cello, and double bass, and the technique and pressure applied can significantly affect the tone and dynamics of the music.

03

a curved weapon joined at both ends by a string, capable of shooting arrows

bow definition and meaning

What is a "bow"?

A bow is a weapon used for shooting arrows, consisting of a flexible curved piece of material with a string attached at both ends. The string is drawn back to create tension, and when released, it propels the arrow forward. Bows have been used in hunting and warfare throughout history and are also used in modern archery as a sport. They vary in design, with traditional bows made of wood and modern ones made from composite materials. Bows allow for precise aiming and shooting over long distances, making them essential in archery competitions.

04

a piece of decorative cloth tied in a bowknot

bow definition and meaning
05

a bending of the head, body, or knee as a gesture of respect, submission, greeting, or shame

bow definition and meaning
06

an object or form that is curved in shape

bow definition and meaning
07

the forward-most part of a ship, boat, or aircraft

08

a stroke made by drawing a curved stick strung with horsehair across the strings of a stringed instrument

09

the gesture of acknowledging applause by bending at the waist or head at the conclusion of a performance

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