head over heels

Emerged in the 14^th century as "heels over head", which is more literally accurate, as "head over heels" is the more standard state of being. "Heels over head" evolved into "head over heels" in common use, departing its literal meaning, probably for reasons of phrasal elegance.

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head over heels (comparative more head over heels, superlative most head over heels)

1. Tumbling upside down; somersaulting.

   She tripped and rolled head over heels down the hill.

2. At top speed; frantically.

   Hearing the noise in the dark, the children ran head over heels back home.

3. Hopelessly smitten.

   He was head over heels in love with the girl next door.

• (tumbling): arse over tit, ass over teakettle, base over apex
• (frantically): full tilt, full throttle, like mad