expression, ichidan verb
place both hands on the ground; prostrate oneself
Used in formal or traditional contexts to express deep respect, apology, or to present a request. Often associated with bowing deeply while kneeling, with hands placed on the ground. Compare 手を突く (てをつく), which is more common for simply putting hands on the ground.
See also: 手を突く
彼は深く頭を下げ、手をつかえて謝罪した。
He bowed deeply, placing his hands on the ground, and apologized.
昔の人は、目上の人に頼みごとをするとき、手をつかえてお願いした。
In the old days, people would place their hands on the ground when making a request to a superior.