The phrase "cooled heels" can be a bit tricky to spell correctly. The "oo" in "cooled" is pronounced with an "oo" sound, like "cool" with a "d" at the end. The "ee" in "heels" is pronounced with an "ee" sound, like the word "feel". The phonetic transcription for "cooled heels" would be /kuːld hiz/. It's important to pay attention to the sounds in a word to spell it accurately, and using phonetic transcription can be a helpful tool in understanding those sounds.
"Cooled heels" is a colloquial expression that originated from the equestrian industry. It refers to the act of allowing a horse to rest and relax after a period of intense exercise or work. When a horse participates in strenuous physical activity, such as a race or a long ride, it builds up excessive heat within its muscles and hooves.
In order to prevent potential injuries or complications, it is essential to gradually lower the horse's body temperature and allow its breathing to return to a normal rate. This cooling process, commonly known as "cooling down," is crucial to prevent overheating, muscle cramps, or other problems that may arise from sudden cessation of intense exercise.
To achieve this, horse owners or trainers typically walk the horse slowly for a certain period, often in a shaded or breezy area, to encourage proper heat dissipation. The term "cooled heels" is derived from the practice of walking the horse, where the animal's heels make contact with the ground while its body temperature gradually decreases. This term has expanded beyond the equestrian realm and is now used metaphorically in general English usage to connote a period of rest or relaxation following a high-stress situation or demanding task.
The phrase "cooled heels" does not have a significant etymology as it is not a commonly used or widely-known phrase. However, "cooled heels" can be understood literally. In this sense, it refers to the idea of someone waiting for a long time, often impatiently or with growing frustration, and as a result, their heels becoming cold. As it is not a fixed idiomatic expression with a specific origin, it may be difficult to trace its etymology.