grovel

• Sich demütig oder unterwürfig verhalten, um jemandes Gunst zu gewinnen; auch: in einer erniedrigenden, kriecherischen Haltung am Boden liegen.

A verb used to describe the act of lying face down in a humble or submissive position, or behaving in a servile, obsequious manner to gain favor.

1. Act submissivelyB2formal

   To behave in a very humble or submissive way, often to gain forgiveness or favor.

   Sich unterwürfig verhalten

   • He groveled at her feet, begging for another chance.
   • The politician groveled before the committee to avoid scandal.
   • She refused to grovel for a promotion she deserved.

   Synonymecowercrawlcreepcringefawnkowtowsuck uptoady

   Antonymecommandconfrontdefydominate

2. Lie or crawl on the groundB2formal

   To lie or crawl face down on the ground, often in fear or submission.

   Auf dem Boden kriechen

   • The soldier groveled in the mud to avoid enemy fire.
   • He groveled on the floor, searching for his lost contact lens.
   • The dog groveled before its owner after breaking the vase.

   Synonymecrawlcreepprostrate