Bow

The term bow has multiple meanings, and two different pronunciations, depending on context:

• A bow (rhymes with "low") is a kind of weapon; see bow (weapon)
• A bow (rhymes with "low") is a device used to play a strung musical instrument; see bow (music)
• A musical bow is a kind of simple strung musical instrument, usually plucked
• Bow is an area of London; see Bow, London, England
• A bow (rhymes with "now") is a lowering of the upper body whilst holding the lower body in its original position. In most cultures, a bow is a sign of respect given by the person bowing to the person bowed before. In some cultures, a whole body language involving bows as an important component has been developed.
• The term bow (rhymes with "now") is used by sailors to refer to the front end of a ship.