word
Mythology
Literary
Achilles' Heel
ah-KIL-eez HEEL
/əˈkɪliːz hiːl/Listen
Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.
Syllable breakdown
Achillesheel
Dictionary meaning
A weakness despite overall strength; from the myth of Achilles' vulnerable heel.
History and origin
Greek
Examples
- His overconfidence is his Achilles' heel in negotiations.
Pronunciation tips
Four syllables. Stress on second syllable of 'Achilles' and on 'heel'.
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