Which term describes the act of bending the right knee as a sign of reverence?

The act of bending the right knee as a sign of reverence is best described by the term "genuflect." This term specifically refers to the gesture commonly associated with showing respect or worship, particularly in religious contexts, such as in Christian traditions where individuals genuflect before the altar. The action symbolizes humility and submission, making it a deeply respectful form of acknowledgment in various ceremonies and rituals.

The other options, while they denote forms of respect or acknowledgment, do not specifically involve the action of bending the knee. Bowing typically involves bending at the waist, crouching refers to lowering one's body closer to the ground without specific intent of reverence, and a salute is usually a gesture of respect involving the hand, often associated with military customs. Thus, "genuflect" is the precise term for this specific action of kneeling as a sign of reverence.