How Do You Spell GOING HEAD OVER HEELS?

Pronunciation: [ɡˌə͡ʊɪŋ hˈɛd ˌə͡ʊvə hˈiːlz] (IPA)

The phrase "going head over heels" describes someone falling or tumbling over in a complete rotation. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /ˈɡoʊɪŋ hɛd ˈoʊvər hilz/. Interestingly, the phrase is often misheard or misspelled as "going head over heels," which can be confusing as it suggests that the person is simply leaning forward. The correct spelling, "going head over heels," emphasizes the full rotation and creates a more vivid picture of the action.

GOING HEAD OVER HEELS Meaning and Definition

  1. "Going head over heels" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a sudden and deliberate movement of a person or object, often resulting in a complete and rapid overturn or somersault. This phrase is derived from the literal meaning of the words, where the head – typically the heaviest part of the body – is positioned below the heels, indicating a complete reversal of the normal standing position.

    This expression is predominantly used metaphorically to convey a sense of extreme excitement, enthusiasm, or intense emotional or physical involvement in a particular situation or activity. It signifies a complete and sudden immersion or absorption in something, often leading to one's loss of composure or balance. It may imply being overwhelmed by intense feelings, such as love, joy, or astonishment, causing a person to act or think impulsively.

    Moreover, "going head over heels" can also be employed in a playful or humorous context. It can refer to engaging in acrobatic movements or tricks, such as somersaults or cartwheels, or simply to portray someone being lighthearted and carefree by engaging in playful antics.

    Overall, "going head over heels" denotes a swift and thorough change in position, whether literal or figurative, evoking a sense of exuberance, urgency, or unpredictability in both physical actions and emotional responses.