Home US English down-at-heeled

Definition of down-at-heeled in English:

down-at-heeled

Pronunciation /ˌdaʊnətˈhiːld/

adjective

rare

  • Characterized by shabbiness, disrepair, neglect, or destitution.

Origin

Late 19th century; earliest use found in Orrville (Ohio) Crescent. From down + at + heeled, after down at heel.