IPA: /baʊ/
KK: /boʊ/
To bend the upper part of the body forward as a sign of respect or greeting.
She decided to bow to the audience after her performance.
Past: bowed
Past Participle: bowed
A curved or bent object, often used to refer to a knot with two loops and two ends, or a tool used for shooting arrows.
She tied her hair back with a beautiful bow.
To bend the head, body, or knee as a sign of respect or greeting, or to play a stringed instrument using a tool called a bow.
He bowed deeply to show his respect for the audience.
Past: bowed
Past Participle: bowed
The word 'bow' originates from Old English 'boga', meaning a curved object or a bend. It refers to the shape of the object used for shooting arrows or the act of bending forward as a gesture of respect.
Think of a 'curved object' ('boga') when you remember that 'bow' can mean both the weapon used to shoot arrows and the act of bending forward.