What does "heels" mean?

1. (part of the foot) the back part of your foot, below the ankle. 2. (part of a shoe) the raised part on the bottom of a shoe that supports the back of the foot. 3. (high-heeled shoes) shoes that have high heels, often worn for formal events.

How do you use "heels"?

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

heels

US //ˈhiɫz// UK //hˈiːlz// heels

1 part of the foot (n.)
A2 Elementary

the back part of your foot, below the ankle.

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

Example

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

Example

After the long hike, he noticed several painful blisters forming on his heels where his socks had bunched up inside his boots.
- toe
2 part of a shoe (n.)
A2 Elementary

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

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

Example

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

Example

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

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3 high-heeled shoes (n.)
B1 Intermediate

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

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

Example

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

Example

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.
- pumps
- stilettos
- flats

Idioms11 entries