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- DictionaryAchilles heel/əˈkɪliːzˌhiːl/
noun
- 1. a weakness or vulnerable point: "the Achilles heel of the case for nuclear power remains the issue of the disposal of waste"
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An Achilles' heel (or Achilles heel) is a weakness despite overall strength, which can lead to downfall. While the mythological origin refers to a physical vulnerability, idiomatic references to other attributes or qualities that can lead to downfall are common.
: a vulnerable point. Did you know? When the hero Achilles was an infant, his sea-nymph mother dipped him into the river Styx to make him immortal. But since she held him by one heel, this spot did not touch the water and so remained mortal and vulnerable, and it was here that Achilles was eventually mortally wounded.
Achilles heel definition: 1. a small problem or weakness in a person or system that can result in failure: 2. a small…. Learn more.
Nov 19, 2019 · By. N.S. Gill. Updated on November 19, 2019. The common phrase "Achilles' heel" refers to a surprising weakness or vulnerability in an otherwise strong or powerful person, a vulnerability that eventually leads to a downfall.
The term ‘Achilles’ heel’ comes from the myth of Achilles, who was said to have been dipped into the river Styx by his mother Thetis in order to make him invulnerable. His heel wasn’t covered by the water and he was later killed by an arrow wound to his heel.
noun. /əˌkɪliːz ˈhiːl/ [usually singular] a weak point or fault in somebody’s character, which can be attacked by other people. The desire for publicity became her Achilles heel. The enemy had an Achilles heel somewhere, if only he could find it. compare Achilles tendon. More Like This Expressions from history and legend. Word Origin.
Achilles heel definition: a portion, spot, area, or the like, that is especially or solely vulnerable. See examples of ACHILLES HEEL used in a sentence.
Achilles heel definition, a portion, spot, area, or the like, that is especially or solely vulnerable: His Achilles heel is his quick temper. See more.
Someone's Achilles heel is the weakest point in their character or nature, where it is easiest for other people to attack or criticize them. Horton's Achilles heel was that he could not delegate. Synonyms: weakness, failing, lack, fault More Synonyms of Achilles heel. Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s Dictionary.
An Achilles' heel is a specific weakness or vulnerability that might lead to failure. An otherwise excellent basketball player might consider her Achilles' heel to be the fact that she's short.
