Langimage
English

heel

|heel|

B1

/hiːl/

back of the foot

Etymology
Etymology Information

'heel' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hēla,' where 'hēla' meant 'heel of the foot.'

Historical Evolution

'hēla' transformed into the Middle English word 'hele,' and eventually became the modern English word 'heel.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'heel of the foot,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the back part of the human foot below the ankle.

She felt a sharp pain in her heel after the long walk.

Synonyms

Noun 2

the part of a shoe or boot that supports the heel.

The heel of her shoe broke during the dance.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to follow closely behind someone.

The dog heeled at his master's command.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to tilt or lean to one side, especially of a ship.

The ship began to heel over in the strong winds.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41