bowing and scraping
The term "bowing and scraping" originated from a formal gesture of respect and now describes overly submissive behavior.
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Definition
C1General
(disapproving, idiomatic)Behaving in an excessively polite or servile manner, often to gain favor from someone in power.
Example
- The employees were bowing and scraping to the new manager, hoping to make a good impression.
- It's cringe-worthy to see him bowing and scraping to every celebrity he meets.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "bowing and scraping":
bow and scrapebow downon bended kneeon one's kneeskiss upmake one's bow