ˈdʒɛn.jʊ.flɛkt ˈkaʊˌtaʊ ˈkaʊˌtaʊ skɹeɪp

try to gain favor by cringing or flattering He is always kowtowing to his boss bend the knees and bow in a servile manner a former Chinese custom of touching the ground with the forehead as a sign of respect or submission