grovel
|grov-el|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈɡrɑː.vəl/
🇬🇧
/ˈɡrɒv.əl/
submissive behavior
Etymology
Etymology Information
'grovel' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'grovelen,' where 'grove' meant 'to lie face down.'
Historical Evolution
'grovelen' transformed into the modern English word 'grovel' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to lie face down,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to act in a servile manner.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to lie or crawl abjectly on the ground with one's face downward.
The servant groveled at the king's feet.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/25 15:31