Meaning & Definition of word "Heel"
to
Heel
/hiːl/
noun:
- 1. The back part of the human foot below the ankle.
- Example: He stepped on a sharp object and hurt the heel of his foot.
- 2. The rounded, projecting part of a shoe, typically at the back.
- Example: She chose a pair of heels to go with her evening gown.
- 3. The part of a sock or stocking that covers the heel of the foot.
- Example: The heel of the sock began to wear out after several washes.
- 4. A person who behaves in a dishonorable, contemptible, or mean-spirited manner.
- Example: He was known as a heel for betraying his friends.
verb:
- 1. To follow someone closely, as a dog might follow its owner.
- Example: The dog heels closely to its owner during their walks.
- 2. To bring a card to the top of a deck or pile by placing it on the heel of the deck.
- Example: Hehealed the cards as he shuffled them for the next game.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'hælan', meaning 'to heal; to protect'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
heel turn:
A sudden change of allegiance or behavior, typically in a dramatic context.
to heel:
To follow closely or obediently.
on one's heel:
In a position to follow or be in close pursuit.
Related Words
arch:
The curved part of the foot that helps in weight distribution.
ankle:
The joint connecting the foot and the leg.
toes:
The digits of the foot.
Slang Meanings of heel
Meaning: A contemptible or dishonorable person.
Example Sentence: He acted like a real heel during the meeting.
Meaning: A character who is a villain in a story or a show.
Example Sentence: The heel in the wrestling match got booed by the crowd.