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Kneel - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To kneel means to bend one or both knees and rest on the ground, often as a sign of respect, submission, or prayer. It can also indicate a humble or pleading posture.

kneel

/nil/ /niːl/

Definition:

To rest on one or both knees, often as a sign of respect or submission.

Synonyms:

bow, genuflect, stoop

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

stand, rise

Common Collocations:

kneel down, kneel before, kneel in prayer

Derivatives:

kneeling, kneeler

Usage Tips:

Use "kneel" for actions involving bending the knees, often in reverence or humility.

Common Phrases:

kneel before the throne, take a knee, kneel in supplication

Etymology:

From Old English "cnēowlian," related to "cnēow" (knee).

Examples:

  • 1. She knelt to tie her shoelaces.
  • 2. The knight knelt before the queen.
  • 3. They kneel in church during prayers.
  • 4. He knelt to propose to her.

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