Kneel/niːl/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Respectful Gesture Kneeling can show respect or honor towards someone or something. The knight knelt before his queen. Pro Tip 2/3Religious Practice Kneeling is a common position for prayer in many religions, indicating reverence. They knelt in prayer at the church. Pro Tip 3/3Submissive Posture In some contexts, kneeling may be seen as a sign of submission or asking for forgiveness. He knelt to beg for her pardon.