o
bei
sance
Plural
obeisances
1
a bodily gesture such as bowing, kneeling, or lowering the head, used to express reverence, submission, shame, or greeting
- She made a low obeisance before the temple deity, her forehead touching the ground.
- The ambassador offered a formal obeisance to the emperor upon entering the court.
- In medieval times, obeisance was a ritualized part of courtly etiquette.
- With a bowed head and bent knee, he performed an obeisance of apology.
- The dancers began their performance with a graceful obeisance to the audience.
2
behavior that expresses respect, submission, or duty toward someone in authority or of higher status
- The knight pledged obeisance to his sovereign, vowing loyalty and service.
- Her constant obeisance to her mentor bordered on self-effacement.
- The villagers showed obeisance to the elder by following her guidance without question.
- His obeisance to tradition kept him from challenging outdated customs.
- The employee's obeisance to company policy earned him praise from management.
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