Prostration is the placement of the body in a reverentially or submissively prone position as a gesture. Typically prostration is distinguished from the lesser acts of bowing or kneeling by involving a part of the body above the knee touching the ground, especially the hands.

What does prostrating oneself mean?

: to lie down with one's face turned toward the ground The worshippers prostrated themselves before the shrine.

What does Protrating mean?

1. to cast (oneself) facedown on the ground in humility, submission, or adoration. 2. to lay flat, as on the ground. 3. to throw down level with the ground. 4. to overthrow, overcome, or reduce to helplessness. 5. to reduce to physical weakness or exhaustion.