bow
Translation
bow, knot, curtsy, to bow
Examples
She tied a red bow in her hair.
She tied a red bow in her hair.
He used a bow and arrow.
He used a bow and arrow.
The actors took a bow after the show.
The actors took a bow after the show.
You should bow to the king.
You should bow to the king.
Grammar Patterns
a bow in/on ((sth.)) a decorative knot on something She wore a bow in her hair.
to take a bow to bend forward to show thanks The singer took a bow.
to bow to ((sb.)) to bend your head or body towards someone They bowed to the audience.
Similar Words
Etymology
Two origins: 1. (weapon/knot, rhymes with 'go') from Old English 'boga' (arch). 2. (to bend, rhymes with 'cow') from Old English 'būgan' (to bend).
Memory Tips
Pronunciation is key! The 'bow' (weapon/knot) rhymes with 'go'. The 'bow' (bending) rhymes with 'cow'. Remember: 'Go shoot a bow', but 'Bow to the cow'.