Definition
the bow (of a ship): the prow, the fore, the head, the stem, the front part (of a ship)
Note that prow can also be used to refer to the front end of a ship.
a bow (and arrows), a bow (for a violin): a curved piece of wood with a tight string, used to shoot (arrows); an implement used to play (a violin)
to bow: to bend, to incline, to nod
to bow to somebody to bend one's knee or body, or lower one's head as a respectful salutation
Pronunciation examples
UK: I bought Robin Hood's bow and arrows at an auction.
US: When I met the Queen, I forgot to bow. It was very embarrassing.
- "Horatio : The sort of thing you play with a bow?"
- "I will not bow to any sponsor."
- "Imagine the beautiful sunsets seen from the bow of a cruise ship."
- "We bow to you our gracious King"
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