—n. - a slip-knot with a double loop. B ribbon etc. So tied.

- curved piece of wood etc. With a string stretched across its ends, for shooting arrows.

- rod with horsehair stretched along its length, for playing the violin etc.

- shallow curve or bend; thing of this form. —v. (also absol.) Use a bow on (a violin etc.). [old english]

- —v. - incline the head or body, esp. In greeting or acknowledgement.

- submit (bowed to the inevitable).

- cause (the head etc.) To incline. —n. Act of bowing. bow and scrape toady. Bow down 1 bend or kneel esp. In submission or reverence.

- make stoop; crush (bowed down by care). Bow out 1 exit (esp. Formally).

- withdraw; retire. Take a bow acknowledge applause. [old english]

- n. - (often in pl.) Front end of a boat.

- rower nearest this. [low german or dutch: related to *bough]