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to cool one's heels
01
to be forced to wait for a person or anticipate something
What is the origin of the idiom "cool one's heels" and when to use it?
The idiom "cool one's heels" originated from the practice of shoeing horses. In the 18th and 19th centuries, blacksmiths would ask riders to "cool" or wait patiently while the newly shod horseshoes were being affixed firmly to the horse's hooves. It is often used in informal conversations or casual settings to describe the act of waiting without becoming impatient or agitated. This expression can be used in a variety of contexts and occasions, such as waiting for appointments, interviews, meetings, or events.
Example
They will have to cool their heels until the meeting starts.
By this time next week, we will still be cooling our heels in the queue for the concert tickets.
I am cooling my heels in the waiting room until my name is called.
He is currently cooling his heels outside the principal's office, waiting to discuss the incident.
She cooled her heels for hours at the airport before her delayed flight finally departed.
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