Prostrate
/ˈprɒstreɪt/
Meaning & Definition
verb
To lay (someone) flat on the ground, especially in submission or adoration.
They prostrated themselves before the king, showing their loyalty.
To reduce (someone) to extreme physical weakness.
The illness prostrated him, leaving him unable to get out of bed.
adjective
Lying stretched out on the ground with one's face downward.
He lay prostrate on the ground after the long hike, exhausted and panting.
Totally incapable of action; overwhelmed.
The news of the disaster left her feeling prostrate with grief.
Etymology
From Middle English 'prostrate', from Latin 'prostratus', past participle of 'prostrare', meaning 'to throw down' or 'to stretch out'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
prostrate with surrender
to be completely defeated or overwhelmed, often suggesting submission.
to lie prostrate before someone
to submit fully to someone's authority or power.
Related Words
prostration
The act of lying flat, often for religious or submissive purposes.
prostrate state
A condition of extreme physical or emotional weakness.
Slang Meanings
Out for the count
After that workout, I was totally prostrate, just out for the count.
Face down
He hit the ground like he was prostrate after that big fall.