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genuflect Synonyms
Another word for genuflect
Choosing another word for genuflect depends on context, so the synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To lower one's body briefly by bending one knee to the ground, typically in worship or as a sign of reverence.
Usage Example
"Worshippers quietly genuflected toward the altar before taking their seats in the pew."
Strong
kneel
curtsy
Weak
bow
• verb (Context 2)
To show excessive, servile deference or obsequious respect toward someone in authority.
Usage Example
"The independent journalist refused to kowtow before the powerful corporate executives."
Strongest
kowtow
Strong
grovel
fawn
toady
truckle
cringe
Opposites of genuflect
The opposite of genuflect shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
defy
resist
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Genuflect. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/genuflect