kneel

Kneel is a verb meaning to bend the knee or knees and lower the body so that one or both knees come into contact with the ground. The posture commonly involves the torso remaining upright or leaning forward slightly. The past tense is knelt or kneeled, and the present participle is kneeling; the noun kneel refers to the act itself or the position.

Kneeling appears in religious, ceremonial, and social contexts. In many faiths, adherents kneel during prayer or adoration. It is also used in genuflection before a monarch or during oaths to show respect or submission. In modern politics and activism, kneeling has been adopted as a protest gesture. In performance arts and sports, kneeling can be a prepared stance or part of a routine.

Mechanics and safety: Kneeling requires bending the knee joints and lowering weight onto one or both knees. Proper technique reduces knee strain: distribute weight through the thighs, keep the back straight, align the feet, and avoid twisting the knee. On hard surfaces, padding or a mat can limit discomfort; loose clothing may hinder movement.

Variations: A one-knee kneel (genuflection) is common in religious practice; a two-knee kneel provides greater stability. The verb has multiple past-tense forms, knelt and kneeled, and the present participle kneeling; kneel may also be used adjectivally to describe the position.

Etymology: The word kneel derives from Old English roots related to the knee; the initial k is silent in modern English, reflecting historical pronunciation.