Find Antonyms

kowtow Antonyms

Opposite of kowtow

Because the opposite of kowtow shifts with each meaning, the antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To act in an excessively subservient, obsequious, or deferential manner toward someone in authority.

Usage Example

"The independent journalist refused to defy to the demands of the local politicians."

Strongest
defy
Strong
resist
oppose
rebel

• noun (Context 2)

An act of excessive deference, obsequiousness, or servile submission.

Usage Example

"Critics dismissed the minister's speech as a shameful defiance to wealthy corporate lobbyists."

Strongest
defiance
Strong
rebellion
resistance

Similar words to kowtow

Words similar to kowtow shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

grovel
bow and scrape
fawn
toady
truckle
prostration
pander
obeisance
See all synonyms of kowtow

• Nearby Words

kookiness
kooky
kosher
kowtow
kryptonite
kudo
kudos

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Kowtow. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/kowtow
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