kow·tow 
(kou-tou, koutou′)
(kou-tou, koutou′)intr.v. kow·towed, kow·tow·ing, kow·tows
1. To kneel and touch the forehead to the ground in expression of deep respect, worship, or submission, as formerly done in China.
2. To show servile deference. See Synonyms at fawn1.
n.
1. The act of kneeling and touching the forehead to the ground.
2. An obsequious act.
[From Mandarin kòu tóu, a kowtow, from Middle Chinese khəw` tɦəw : khəw`, to strike, knock + tɦəw, head.]