Bow Meaning

UK /baʊ/
US /boʊ/
Word Definition
bow meaning

Bow Definition & Usage

noun

A tied knot, typically made with ribbon, string, or cloth, often used as decoration or as part of a fastening.

Examples

  • "She tied a beautiful bow on the gift."
  • "The ballerina wore a pink bow in her hair."
  • "He placed a bow on the package before handing it to her."
  • "The dress was adorned with a velvet bow at the back."
  • "I bought a pair of shoes with big bows on the straps."
verb

To bend the upper part of the body forward as a sign of respect or acknowledgment.

Examples

  • "The audience gave a standing ovation, and the actor bowed deeply."
  • "He bowed to the queen during the royal ceremony."
  • "The violinist bowed gracefully after the concert."
  • "She bowed her head in prayer."
  • "When meeting his elders, he always bows as a sign of respect."
noun

A weapon consisting of a curved piece of wood or other material with a taut string attached, used for shooting arrows.

Examples

  • "The archer drew his bow and aimed at the target."
  • "He was skilled at using a longbow for hunting."
  • "She practiced every day, hoping to master the bow and arrow."
  • "During medieval times, soldiers used bows in battle."
  • "The museum had an exhibit of ancient bows from different cultures."

Cultural Context

The word 'bow' has various meanings, depending on its use. It can refer to a decorative knot, a gesture of respect, or a weapon used in archery. The bow as a gesture of respect is common in many cultures, especially in East Asia and European traditions. The bow as a weapon dates back to ancient times and was pivotal in hunting and warfare. The decorative bow is widely seen in fashion, gift wrapping, and home decor.

The Archer's Bow

Story

The Archer's Bow

In the quiet village nestled between rolling hills, there was an ancient legend about a mystical bow that could never miss its target. Young Aric had heard the tale many times from his grandmother, who always told him that one day, he would prove the story true. He had trained with a simple wooden bow, learning the art of archery under the guidance of the village elder, but something about the fabled bow always called to him. One chilly morning, as the sun began to rise, Aric decided it was time. He packed his belongings, tied a red ribbon in a bow on his satchel for good luck, and set off on his journey. His path was long, and the forests grew dense, but with each step, he felt a growing sense of respect for the ancient art. After days of travel, Aric reached the old temple where the legendary bow was said to be hidden. As he entered the temple, he found an old stone altar, and on it lay a magnificent bow, unlike any he had ever seen. It was made of shining silver and wrapped in intricate designs. With trembling hands, Aric reached out and took the bow. It felt as if it had always belonged to him. He looked down at the ground, bowing his head in reverence, before he drew the string and took aim. The arrow flew, and true to the legend, it hit its mark with perfect precision. But in that moment, Aric realized that the true power of the bow was not in its ability to never miss, but in the respect and dedication it demanded. He had learned that the journey itself—his humility, his practice, and his respect for the bow—was what had made him worthy. Aric returned to the village, not only as a master of the bow but as someone who understood the deeper meaning behind every bowing gesture of respect he made.

The Archer's Bow