Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom: to cool one’s heels
2019
Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom:
to cool one’s heels
Answer: C. to wait for a very long time — Correct meaning: to wait for a very long time or be kept waiting. Explanation: The idiom is figurative and suggests being left standing or waiting so long…
- A.
to feel very tired
- B.
to dip the feet in cold water
- C.
to wait for a very long time
- D.
to feel very fresh
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Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct meaning: to wait for a very long time or be kept waiting.
Explanation: The idiom is figurative and suggests being left standing or waiting so long that your heels cool. It describes a situation where someone is delayed or made to wait.
Example: "He arrived early but was made to cool his heels in the lobby until the conference began."
Why the other choices are incorrect:
The phrase "to feel very tired" is about physical or mental fatigue, not about being kept waiting.
The literal idea of "dipping the feet in cold water" is not the intended figurative meaning of the idiom.
The idea "to feel very fresh" is essentially the opposite of being delayed or inconvenienced and does not match the idiom.
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