bow and scrape

Idioms  

1. 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]

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Example Sentences

A beneficiary might have to bow and scrape like a courtier, or accept treatment as a glorified servant.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Terrified of getting on his bad side, we bow and scrape, flatter and flirt, or worse — just to get that raise or make sure we don’t get fired.

From New York Times • Aug. 24, 2018

With a knowing gaze, raised eyebrow and narrowed eyes, he surveys his courtiers as they bow and scrape and jockey for royal favor.

From New York Times • Jun. 25, 2015

Job-seekers were being taught to bow and scrape and grovel to get a job.

From Forbes • Apr. 17, 2015

Like all Scholars, I learned to lower my eyes before the Martials, but at least I never had to bow and scrape before them.

From "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir