Synonyms for

Kneeling

Verb / ˈni:lɪŋ / Another word for kneeling — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to be on your knees, with one or both knees on the ground

Synonyms & similar words

kneel bowing prostrating crouching genuflecting praying worshipping submitting adoring kowtowing bending leaning inclining stooping squatting curtsying bobbing dipping

Synonyms by register

Formal

prostrate bowed

Informal

squatting crouching

Literary

genuflecting adoring

Antonyms

standing erect upright sitting walking running

Common collocations

  • kneeling position
  • kneeling down
  • kneeling in prayer
  • kneeling before
  • kneeling on the floor
  • kneeling pad
  • kneeling bench

Word family

noun kneel
verb kneel
adverb kneelingly

Usage note

Kneeling describes the act of resting on one or both knees. It is often associated with prayer, supplication, or humility.

Example sentences

  1. The knight was kneeling before the king.
  2. She was kneeling on the ground to plant flowers.
  3. He was kneeling in prayer at church.
  4. The athlete was kneeling to stretch his legs before the game.
  5. The boy was kneeling to tie his shoelaces.

Quotes

  • "I stand and kneel. Sit and pray. I am a priest."
  • "I kneel and pray. Not because I'm helpless. But because I'm grateful."
  • "Kneel down, boys! Drink the cup of God's wrath! It is pure and holy!"

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words