kneeling

posture

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

To kneel means to position your body so that one or both knees are on the floor. It can also mean to fall or rest on your knees. The word "kneel" has been in use since before the 12th century. Related forms include "kneeling," "kneels," and "knelt". A "kneeler" can refer to a person who kneels or an object, like a cushion, that one kneels on. "Kneelingly" is an adverb describing an action done from a kneeling position.123

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religious symbolism and iconography
Gestural and physical movements
…of the heavenly gods; by kneeling, the realm of the underworld. This apparently was the original meaning of kneeling before it became an expression of humility. The bow as an intimated genuflection generally indicates respect. The kiss and the embrace—and sometimes also the actions of breathing or spitting upon someone…
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…of the heavenly gods; by kneeling, the realm of the underworld. This apparently was the original meaning of kneeling before it became an expression of humility. The bow as an intimated genuflection generally indicates respect. The kiss and the embrace—and sometimes also the actions of breathing or spitting upon someone…
Read More