WOTD

kowtow

ˈkaʊˈtaʊ, -ˌtaʊ, ˈkoʊ-/ (IPA),

From Chinese (Mandarin) kòu tóu, a kowtow, kòu, to knock, + tóu, head.]

(intransitive verb: -towed, -tow·ing, -tows.)

1. To kneel and touch the forehead to the ground in expression of deep respect, worship, or submission, as formerly done in China.
2. To show servile deference.

(noun)

1. The act of kneeling and touching the forehead to the ground.
2. An obsequious act.