intransitive. To become prostrate; to fall forward with the face downward; to throw oneself to the ground in reverence or submission (cf. sense 1b).

Phrases and figurative uses. to kiss (a person's) shoe (in token of servility or abject submission).

spec. esp. To bend the body in submission or reverence; to bow (unto, to, before, towards).

intransitive. To perform the kowtow. Also transferred.