genuflexion

/,dʤenju:'flekʃn/

Thân thiện

A worshipper performs a genuflexion before entering the pew.

Definition

Noun: 1. The act of bending one or both knees to the ground, typically as a gesture of worship, reverence, or formal respect. This is a physical gesture, often performed in religious contexts, to show submission, adoration, or honor.

Usage

The word "genuflexion" is a formal term, primarily used in religious, ceremonial, or historical contexts. It describes a specific, intentional bodily gesture. - It is most commonly associated with practices in Christian liturgy, especially within the Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran traditions, where it is performed before the altar or the Blessed Sacrament. - It can also be used more broadly to describe a deep, kneeling bow of respect before a monarch or a sacred object.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The monk entered the chapel and made a deep genuflexion before the altar.
  • In many traditions, a genuflexion is a sign of profound reverence during prayer.
  • The knight's genuflexion before the king was a formal act of fealty.

Advanced Usage

• "To make a genuflexion": This is the standard phrase used to describe performing the act.
  • The congregation is instructed to make a genuflexion when entering the pew.
• "A genuflexion of respect": Emphasizes the purpose of the gesture.
  • His approach was marked by a silent genuflexion of respect.

Variants and Related Words

• Genuflect (verb): To perform a genuflexion.
  • The faithful genuflect upon entering the church.
• Genuflection (noun): This is the more common modern spelling of "genuflexion." Both forms are correct and interchangeable.
  • The genuflection is a common practice in many liturgical ceremonies.

Synonyms

• Kneeling: The general act of resting on one's knees.
• Obeisance: A gesture expressing deferential respect, such as a bow or curtsy.
• Prostration: Lying stretched out on the ground face down, an even more extreme gesture of submission or worship.

Antonyms

• Standing: To be on one's feet.
• Defiance: Open resistance or bold disobedience.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the act of bending the knees in worship or reverence

Từ đồng nghĩa

• genuflection