— obeisant , adj. — obeisantly , adv.
/oh bay"seuhns, oh bee"-/ , n.
1. a movement of the body expressing deep respect or deferential courtesy, as before a superior; a bow, curtsy, or other similar gesture.
2. deference or homage: The nobles gave obeisance to the new king.
[ 1325-75; ME obeisaunce obeissance, deriv. of OF obeissant, prp. of obeir to OBEY; see -ANCE ]