head over heels
1
in a state of extreme excitement or confusion
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.
- When she won the lottery, she was head over heels with excitement and couldn't believe her good fortune.
- The children ran head over heels into the amusement park, eager to experience the thrill of the rides.
- After receiving the promotion, he was head over heels with joy as it was a significant milestone in his career.
- The surprise announcement left everyone in the room head over heels, trying to process the unexpected news.
- The chaotic scene at the concert had the crowd head over heels, with people pushing and jostling to get closer to the stage.
2
the position or state of being turned or flipped so that the top becomes the bottom and the bottom becomes the top
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.
- 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.
- The sudden gust of wind sent the umbrella flying, turning it head over heels in the air.
- The roller coaster plunged down the track, sending riders head over heels through loops and twists.
- When the child toppled off the swing, he went head over heels and landed on the ground.