Obeisance (noun)

A gesture of respect or deference, such as a bow or curtsy; a sign of submission or homage.

Origin:

Derived from the old french word "obeissance" meaning "submission, obedience", it was first recorded in the 14th century.

Examples:

1. The courtiers paid obeisance to the king as he entered the throne room.
2. The peasantry paid obeisance to their feudal lord.
3. He paid obeisance to the emperor and then stepped back.
4. When entering the mosque, one should bow in obeisance to Allah.
5. The soldiers paid obeisance to the flag before beginning the parade.