Definition

Lying flat on the ground, often face down, usually in a position of submission or weakness.

Example

After the long race, he felt so exhausted that he had to lie prostrate on the grass.

Conversation

Did you see that plant in the garden?

Yeah, it looks so prostrate and healthy!

I wonder if it grows that way naturally?

It might be a good adaptation to the environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To cause someone or something to lie flat on the ground, often in a position of submission or weakness.

Example

The strong winds prostrated the young trees in the park.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the storm last night?

Yeah, it was so strong that it actually prostrated some of the young trees in the park.

That's really unfortunate; I loved those trees.

Root Explanation

Prostrate → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning forward) and "sternere" (meaning to spread out or lay down). The word describes the act of lying flat or stretched out, often in a position of submission or exhaustion.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lying forward' ('pro-') and 'spreading out' ('sternere') to remember that prostrate means to lie flat, often in submission.

Visually Confused Words