Bow

Definition

Bow is a versatile word with multiple meanings. As a noun, it can refer to a weapon for shooting arrows, a curved piece of material for playing stringed instruments, or a gesture of respect. As a verb, it means to bend the upper part of the body forward as a sign of respect or to yield to pressure.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

Noun (for weapon or instrument) - American and British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /boʊ/
• Respelling: boh

Verb (to bend) - American and British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /baʊ/
• Respelling: bow (rhymes with cow)

The pronunciation of "bow" varies depending on its meaning. The noun form (for weapon or instrument) is pronounced as /boʊ/, while the verb (to bend) is pronounced as /baʊ/.

Etymology

The noun "bow" (weapon) originates from the Old English "boga," meaning "arch" or "bend." The verb "bow" (to bend) also comes from Old English "bugan," meaning "to bend or curve." Both words share roots in the Proto-Germanic term "*bugon," meaning "to bend," and have retained similar meanings related to bending or curving.

Derivatives

• Bowman (noun)
• Bowing (verb)
• Bowstring (noun)
• Bowyer (noun)
• Rebow (verb)

Synonyms

• Bend (for verb)
• Curve (for noun)
• Incline (for verb)

Antonyms

• Straighten (for verb)
• Stand upright (for verb)
• Unbend (for verb)

Usage

The word "bow" has various applications. In archery, a bow is a curved weapon used for shooting arrows. In music, it refers to the curved stick used to play stringed instruments like the violin. As a verb, it commonly refers to the act of bending the upper body as a gesture of respect or submission. Additionally, in nautical terminology, "bow" refers to the front end of a ship.

Related Terms

• Arrow: A projectile shot from a bow.
• Curtsy: A form of bow, often performed by women as a gesture of respect.
• Incline: To bend or lean towards something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A weapon used for shooting arrows: A curved implement made of flexible material with a string attached to its ends, used in archery.
  • Example: "He drew his bow and released the arrow."
• A curved stick for playing stringed instruments: A slender, curved stick used with horsehair to play instruments such as the violin.
  • Example: "She used her bow skillfully to play the violin."
• The front end of a ship: In nautical terms, refers to the forward part of a vessel.
  • Example: "The ship's bow cut through the waves."

Verb

• To bend forward as a gesture of respect or submission: Describes the act of bending the body, usually at the waist, as a sign of respect.
  • Example: "The performer bowed to the audience."
• To bend or curve: In a general sense, describes bending or curving something.
  • Example: "The tree's branches bowed under the weight of the snow."