Lying flat on the ground, especially as a gesture of respect or submission; or to lay something flat.
From Latin 'prostratus,' past participle of 'prosternere' (to throw down), combining 'pro-' (forward) and 'sternere' (to spread or stretch out).
Many cultures developed the practice of prostrating—lying flat before rulers or gods—which is why this one Latin word connected to submission and humility survives in modern English despite being rarely used in everyday speech.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.