HEEL, n. [L. calx; Gr. a tumor.] 1. The hind part of the foot, particularly of man; but it is applied also to the corresponding part of the feet of quadrupeds.2. The whole foot. The stag recalls his strength, his speed, His winged heels--3. The hind part of a shoe, either for man or beast.4. The part of a stocking intended for the heel. To be out at the heels, is to have on stockings that are worn out.5. Something shaped like the human heel; a protuberance or knob.6. The latter part; as, a bill was introduced into the legislature at the heel of the session.7. A spur. This horse understands the heel well.8. The after end of a ship's keel; the lower end of the stern-post to which it is connected; also,the lower end of a mast.To be at the heels, to pursue closely; to follow hard; also, to attend closely. Hungry want is at my heels.To show the heels, to flee; to run from. To take to the heels, to flee; to betake to flight. To lay by the heels, to fetter; to shackle; to confine. To have the heels of, to outrun. Neck and heels, the whole length of the body. HEEL, v.i. To dance. HEEL, v.t. To arm a cock. 1. To add a heel to; as, to heel a shoe.HEEL v.i. To incline; to lean; as a ship; as, the ship heels a-port, or a star-board.
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