genuflection

/ˌdʒɛnjəˈflɛkʃən/
noun
  1. The act of bending one knee to the ground, especially as a sign of respect or worship.
    • In some traditions, a genuflection is made before the altar.
    • His deep genuflection showed his reverence for the sacred space.
    • The congregation performed a genuflection as the priest passed by.
  2. An act of excessive deference or submission to someone or something.
    • Her constant genuflection to fashion trends annoyed her friends.
    • The CEO's genuflection to the board members was seen as a sign of weakness.
    • The treaty was a genuflection to the demands of the invading army.