English Reference

Word

heels

US/ˈhiɫz/

UK/hˈiːlz/

Definitions

01part of the foot

A2 · Elementary Plural noun

n. the back part of your foot, below the ankle.

n. the rounded posterior portion of the human foot, located below the ankle and behind the arch.

“The new boots were too tight and rubbed against my heels all day.”

“After the long hike, he noticed several painful blisters forming on his heels where his socks had bunched up inside his boots.”

Antonyms

toe

02part of a shoe

A2 · Elementary Plural noun

n. the raised part on the bottom of a shoe that supports the back of the foot.

n. the part of a shoe or boot that supports the heel of the foot, varying in height and thickness.

“She took her shoes to the repair shop because the heels were worn down.”

“The cobbler explained that the rubber heels on these dress shoes would need replacing every few months to maintain proper grip.”

03high-heeled shoes

B1 · Intermediate Plural noun

n. shoes that have high heels, often worn for formal events.

n. a type of footwear featuring significantly raised heels, typically worn in formal or fashion-conscious contexts.

“She found it difficult to walk quickly while wearing high heels.”

“Although the invitation specified formal attire, she decided against wearing heels, opting instead for elegant flat shoes to ensure she could stand comfortably all evening.”

Usage

Usually used in the plural when referring to the shoes themselves.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Common
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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