FALLS HEADLONG Meaning and
Definition
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To "fall headlong" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a sudden and uncontrolled descent or plunge, typically referring to a physical action or movement where the body loses its balance and falls forward with the head leading. This phrase conveys a sense of reckless haste, often implying an impulsive or thoughtless action that results in an abrupt fall or stumble.
Furthermore, "falls headlong" can also be used metaphorically to describe a figurative plunge or downfall, often emphasizing the speed and lack of caution with which someone or something experiences a sudden change in fortune or status. This can pertain to a person's moral or social decline, characterized by a rapid deterioration of their reputation, relationships, or other aspects of their life. It can also depict a precipitous decline in the success or performance of a business, project, or endeavor.
The term "falls headlong" carries connotations of impulsivity, carelessness, and a lack of forethought. It suggests a sudden and unexpected event that leads to negative consequences or outcomes. This phrase is often used to highlight the drastic nature of a fall or a decline, underscoring the lack of control or preparation in the situation. Whether literally or figuratively, "falls headlong" signifies a swift and unguarded descent, often resulting in undesirable outcomes.
Common Misspellings for FALLS HEADLONG
- fall headlong
- fall head long
- dalls headlong
- calls headlong
- valls headlong
- galls headlong
- talls headlong
- ralls headlong
- fzlls headlong
- fslls headlong
- fwlls headlong
- fqlls headlong
- fakls headlong
- fapls headlong
- faols headlong
- falks headlong
- falps headlong
- falos headlong
- falla headlong
- fallz headlong
Etymology of FALLS HEADLONG
The phrase "falls headlong" can be broken down into two parts: "falls" and "headlong".
The word "falls" is the third person singular form of the verb "fall", which originated from the Old English word "feallan". It has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages such as German "fallen" and Dutch "vallen".
"Headlong" is an adverb derived from the Middle English phrase "heddwang", which combines the words "hede" (head) and "wange" (cheek). It originally referred to diving headfirst with the cheeks pressed against the face. Over time, "heddwang" evolved into "headlong", and its meaning expanded to denote any action involving recklessness, haste, or with the head leading the way.
