← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: He was head over heels after their first date.

Head over heels

Meaning

Deeply in love or wildly excited.

Usage

Used for strong romantic feelings or enthusiasm.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Originally meant upside down; later romanticized in the 19th century.

Moved into affectionate idioms throughout the 20th century.

Related Idioms

In over your head

Deal with something beyond your competence.

Hit the nail on the head

To say or identify something exactly right, with no wasted guessing.

Bend over backwards

Make a great effort to please someone.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.