heel turn

American  

[heel turn] / ˈhil ˌtɜrn /

noun

1. Professional Wrestling. a dramatic change of persona from a heroic face character to a villainous heel character.

2. a reversal of position or direction, especially a change in character or affiliation perceived as abandoning a righteous or heroic course in pursuit of an unscrupulous or villainous one.

   The governor’s heel turn on healthcare will harm his constituents while lining his re-election coffers.

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Etymology

Origin of heel turn

First recorded in 1895–1900 as a maneuver in skating; 1990–95 heel turn for def. 1 and 2010–15 heel turn for def. 2

Example Sentences

Canada’s heel turn has come in curling, of all sports.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 15, 2026

Lacy doesn’t know what he’ll play next, if he’ll continue this particular heel turn or return to nice-guy roles or try something else.

From New York Times • Oct. 5, 2022

But while USC and Riley take their inevitable heel turn this season, I have no doubt Kelly will bask in that anonymity for a while.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 30, 2022

The issue wasn't necessarily what happened, but that the show didn't spend the time to make those moments, like Bran becoming king or Dany's heel turn, feel earned.

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2022

If Cline had any meaningful awareness of his protagonist’s dramatic heel turn, it might have made for a far more interesting read.

From Slate • Dec. 1, 2020