# turn on one's heel

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/turn-on-ones-heel
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To suddenly turn away from someone or something in order to depart rapidly, especially as expressive of haughtiness, disapproval, or evasiveness.

## Examples

- He turned on his heel and walked away without a word.
- When she saw her ex-boyfriend across the room, she turned on her heel and left the party immediately.
- Upon hearing the insulting suggestion, the diplomat turned on his heel and exited the chamber with cold, calculated precision.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.