1. Literally, to go down on one or both of one's knees in front of someone or something, a gesture of obedience, subservience, loyalty, or respect. The knight knelt down in the presence of the king. Several people were kneeling down in prayer when I entered the church.

What does the phrase kneel down mean?

to go down into, or stay in, a position where one or both knees are on the ground: She knelt (down) beside the child.

What does it mean when you kneel before someone?

Filters. To kneel in front of someone or something, especially in order to worship or supplicate.