Genuflection

Genuflection (pronounced jen-yoo-FLEK-shun) is the act of bending one or both knees, typically in a gesture of reverence, worship, submission, or respect. This action is often performed in religious contexts, particularly within Christianity, where it symbolizes humility and acknowledgment of a higher power, often the divinity of God. The depth and manner of the Genuflection can vary depending on the specific tradition and the level of respect intended. While traditionally a Christian practice, Genuflection can also be used figuratively to describe any act of respectful bowing or yielding, suggesting a recognition of authority, talent, or position. It can also be used to describe a formal showing of deference.

Genuflection meaning with examples

• During the Catholic mass, the devout parishioner performed a precise Genuflection before entering the pew, showing respect for the Eucharist. It was a gesture of reverence, repeated with each pass of the altar. His silent act was born of years of religious devotion.
• In the presence of the visiting monarch, the courtiers and dignitaries performed a deep Genuflection, demonstrating their loyalty and acknowledging the queen's royal standing. The low bows, the respectful silence, and the formality of the movement was meant to impress.
• The student, realizing her mistake, offered a Genuflection of apology to the professor, bowing her head in acknowledgment of her wrongdoing and to show humble respect for the correction. It was an act of sincerity to show how bad she felt for her behaviour.
• The actor, taking his final bow after the performance, executed a theatrical Genuflection toward the audience, as if they were deities, acknowledging their applause and acceptance of his craft. His humility made the fans scream their appreciation.
• Figuratively speaking, after a long career of hard work, the upstart corporation made a Genuflection to its more established, better performing competitor by attempting to change their company to mimic the same format, admitting their superior success.