συγκύπτω
synkýptō
G4794 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To bend or be bent together, to be thoroughly bowed down (of the body), particularly with reference to physical debility, age, or affliction; to be completely stooped or bent over, either literally due to physical condition or metaphorically to indicate a state of oppression or burden.
Semantic Range
to be bent together, to be completely stooped over, to be physically bowed down (as by illness, age, or affliction)
Root / Etymology
From σύν ('together, with') and κύπτω ('to bend, stoop, bow down'), forming a compound emphasizing thoroughness or completeness of the action; thus, 'to be bent/bowed together' or 'to be completely stooped'. No evidence of extra-Greek derivation.
Historical & Contextual Notes
συγκύπτω occurs rarely in extant Greek literature. Its main attestation is in Luke 13:11, describing a woman 'bent double' (συγκύπτουσα), indicating a chronic condition of being physically incapacitated, thoroughly stooped over. The term conveys an intensified or total being-bowed, beyond the simple 'stoop' of κύπτω. There is no evidence for broader metaphorical usage in Koine literature, but in context may imply a state of incapacity, helplessness, or severe affliction. English translations vary, often using 'bent over', 'bowed together', or 'completely stooped', capturing the idea of complete and continuous curvature of the body. The image is stronger than that of merely bowing the head or a passing gesture, emphasizing a lasting, burdensome state. In medical or descriptive contexts of the period, such language might relate to chronic spinal or muscular affliction. No indication exists that the word acquired idiomatic usage for humiliation or social status in Koine Greek; its sense remains primarily physical.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from σύν and κύπτω; to stoop altogether, i.e. be completely overcome by:--bow together.
Root Family
συγκύπτω (synkyptō) — to bend, to stoop, to bow down
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4794-01 |
συνκύπτουσα | sunkuptousa | V PRS ACT PTCP NOM F SG |
bent over | being completely stooped | bent over | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4794-01 |
Luke 13:11 | συνκύπτουσα | sunkuptousa | V PRS ACT PTCP NOM F SG |
bent over | being completely stooped | bent over |