bowing

American  

[boh-ing] / ˈboʊ ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or art of playing a stringed instrument with a bow.

2. the individual way of using the bow in playing a stringed instrument, including the way in which the musician approaches the music emotionally, the articulation of individual notes, and the manner in which the notes of a passage are grouped together.

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bowing British  

/ ˈbəʊɪŋ /

noun

1. the technique of using the bow in playing a violin, viola, cello, or related instrument

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Other Word Forms

• unbowing adjective

Etymology

Origin of bowing

First recorded in 1830–40; bow ² + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Footage from the IRGC-affiliated Tasnim news agency, showed hundreds of mourners bowing their heads in front of a group of at least 18 coffins draped in the flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Some now are pressing pause, bowing out or trying to change things up creatively.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

"I assume full responsibility for this defeat," an ashen-faced Jospin announced, bowing out of politics to howls of dismay from supporters.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

The FDA reversed itself Wednesday, bowing to an appeal by the company, Moderna announced, saying the FDA will now review its application to license the flu shot.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026

I made a respectful puja, bowing to the household shrine.

From "Homeless Bird" by Gloria Whelan

Related Words

• submission
• yielding