rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryprostrationLying face down
noun

prostration

prah-STRAY-shun/prɑːˈstreɪʃn/

The act or condition of lying face down in submission.

The worshiper lies face down in prostration before the shrine.

A worshiper lies face down before a Buddha shrine while two others stand with palms together.
Etymology
proLatinbefore, forth
+stratLatinspread out, lay down
+ionLatinaction or state

Laying or throwing someone flat supplies the central image: lying face down expresses submission, while extreme weakness leaves someone figuratively or literally laid low.

In context

Conquering Your Fibromyalgia5:46
The name signifies debility or prostration affecting primarily the nervous system, which constitutes the affection.
Neurasthenia to Fibromyalgia: The Condition Medicine Forgot Part 1

More examples

  • He performs three prostrations before rising to his feet.
  • The monk remains in prostration while the others pray.
  • The king demands a prostration from anyone approaching his throne.

Forms

prostration · prostrations

prostrate verb — To lay oneself face down in submission.

Similar words

obeisance
Obeisance shows respectful submission, often through a bow or gesture.
bow
A bow bends the upper body without lying face down.