LanGeekLanGeek Dictionary

hairy at the heel

British pronunciation/hˈeəɹi at ðə hˈiːl/
American pronunciation/hˈɛɹi æt ðə hˈiːl/
hairy at the heel
[PHRASE]
1

lacking good manners

Add to leitnerwordlist
Add to your word listwordlist
hairy at the [heel] definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "hairy at the heel " and when to use it?

The idiom "hairy at the heel" dates back to at least the 17th century. It originally referred to horses that appeared healthy except for fur or hairy growths around their heels, which indicated underlying problems. Today, it is used to describe a person who has bad manners and not behave well in social situations.

Copyright © 2020 Langeek Inc. | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy