bow and scrape

Idioms and Phrases

Behave obsequiously or too deferentially, as in In this fashionable store, the salespersons virtually bow and scrape before customers . This term alludes to the old-fashioned custom of bowing so deeply that one's foot draws back and scrapes the ground. A cliché for a century or more, it may be dying out. [Mid-1600s]

Example Sentences

But the program that he's contemplating as his instrument to pay back all those who've refused to bow and scrape before him is a full-on fascist agenda.

From Salon

For one thing, it tracks: Every society has its rulers, whether they’re overprivileged nobles or First Families of Virginia — both groups expecting the peasants to bow and scrape before their money and power.

From Los Angeles Times

It makes the deplorables feel powerful, watching people like McConnell and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy bow and scrape to the ludicrous reality TV host foisted on them by their own voters.

From Salon

The former president has long taken special delight in bringing to heel Republicans who, having criticized him, are forced to acknowledge his supremacy in the party and bow and scrape for his approval.

From New York Times

They declined to bow and scrape, and defended their rights with pistols if necessary.

From New York Times