head over heels

Definition & Meaning of "head over heels"in English

head over heels
01

in a state of extreme excitement or confusion

IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "head over heels" and when to use it?

The idiom "head over heels" originated in the late 18th century and has its roots in the earlier phrase "heels over head." The idiom means to be in a state of extreme excitement, confusion, or intense emotion. It is now used figuratively to describe a person experiencing a complete overturning or turning upside down, as if their head is positioned below their heels. Over time, the phrase shifted to "head over heels" to convey a sense of being completely absorbed or immersed in a particular state or situation.

example
Examples
When she won the lottery, she was head over heels with excitement and could n't believe her good fortune.
The children ran head over heels into the amusement park, eager to experience the thrill of the rides.
02

the position or state of being turned or flipped so that the top becomes the bottom and the bottom becomes the top

IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "head over heels" and when to use it?

The idiom "head over heels" originated in the 14th century and originally appeared as "heels over head." The phrase describes the position or state of being turned or flipped so that the top becomes the bottom and the bottom becomes the top. It is used figuratively to convey a sense of tumbling, falling, or being in a state of disorientation or inversion.

example
Examples
The acrobat somersaulted in the air, going head over heels before landing gracefully.
As he tripped on the stairs, he went head over heels and landed with a thud at the bottom.
head over heels for somebody
head over heels
head over heels in love
head over heels for somebody
01

used to refer to a state in which one is really in love with someone

What is the origin of the idiom "head over heels for someone" and when to use it?

The idiom "head over heels" is believed to have originated in the 16th century. It is thought to be a reference to the idea of being so in love with someone that one is literally turned upside down. The phrase has been used in literature and popular culture for centuries, and it continues to be a popular way to describe being deeply in love. It conveys a sense of intense infatuation and overwhelming emotions, where one's thoughts and feelings are completely consumed by their love for the other person.

example
Examples
Andrew could n't stop thinking about Claire. Her intelligence, wit, and beauty had him head over heels, and he could n't wait to see her again.
Ever since Gerald met Sophia, he has been head over heels over her. He ca n't help but smile whenever she's around.
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