Heel - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Heel is the back part of the foot below the ankle. It can also refer to the raised part of a shoe supporting this area or, informally, a dishonorable person.
Definition:
The back part of the foot below the ankle, or the part of a shoe supporting this area.
Synonyms:
sole, back, footpad, stiletto
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
toe, front
Common Collocations:
high heels, heel pain, heel strap, heel bone
Derivatives:
heeled, heeling, heels
Usage Tips:
Use "heel" as a noun for foot or shoe parts; as a verb for leaning or tilting (e.g., a ship).
Common Phrases:
Achilles' heel, down at heel, take to one's heels
Etymology:
Old English "hēla," from Proto-Germanic *hāhilō, related to Dutch "hiel" and German "Ferse."
Examples:
- 1. She wore shiny red heels to the party.
- 2. The dog obediently walked at his owner's heel.
- 3. He felt a sharp pain in his left heel after running.
- 4. The ship began to heel in the strong wind.