Definition of the word stoop to

The word "stoop" originates from an Old Norse word, "steypa," which means "to bend down" or "to slope." It entered the English language during the Old English period (450-1066 CE) and has maintained its meaning over time. In its earliest usage, "stoop" was primarily a physical action, meaning to bend down or stoop over, often to perform a task such as picking something up or working in a low position. Over time, "stoop" began to take on metaphorical meanings, such as to debase oneself or lower one's pride or status, as in "He stooped to beg for forgiveness." The expression "stoop to conquer" is derived from a reverse use of the phrase, "conquer by stooping," which referred to conquering a foe by humbling oneself before them, such as through submission or appeasement. The phrase "stoop to" itself began to be used during the Middle English period (1100-1500 CE) and has continued to be used in its metaphorical sense to this day, meaning to lower oneself or one's expectations in order to achieve a goal or accommodate another person's needs.