Meaning & Definition of word "Heel"

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    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.