heeler

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A person who heels shoes: "heeler" refers to a worker who attaches or repairs the heels of shoes or boots.
    • A political operative (U.S. slang): In American political jargon, a "heeler" is a loyal and active supporter of a local political boss or organization, often performing menial or behind-the-scenes tasks.
Usage Examples
  • Shoe repair context:
    • The old shoemaker worked as a heeler for decades, replacing worn-down heels. (A person who specializes in fitting heels onto footwear.)
  • Political context:
    • The local party leader relied on a team of heelers to distribute pamphlets and rally voters. (A loyal assistant or activist in a political machine.)
Advanced Usage
  • "ward heeler": A specific term for a political operative who works at the ward level (a small administrative district in a city).
    • He started as a ward heeler, knocking on doors and collecting votes for the party. (A low-level but dedicated political worker.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Heel (n): the back part of the foot or a shoe.
    • The heel of my boot is worn out. (The part of the shoe that supports the heel.)
  • Heel (v): to follow closely, as a dog at its owner's heel; also, to put a heel on a shoe.
    • The dog was trained to heel. (To walk obediently beside the owner.)
Synonyms
  • Shoe repairer: a person who fixes shoes (for the first meaning).
  • Cobbler: a general term for a shoemaker, though a heeler specializes in heels.
  • Political operative: a person who works for a political party (for the second meaning).
  • Lackey: a derogatory term for a servile follower (similar to the political sense).
Related Idioms
  • "To bring someone to heel": to force someone to obey or submit.
    • The new manager brought the unruly staff to heel. (Made them comply with rules.)
  • "To cool one's heels": to wait for a long time.
    • I was left cooling my heels in the waiting room. (Kept waiting impatiently.)
Note on Usage

The political meaning of "heeler" is primarily historical or informal, originating in 19th-century American urban politics. The shoe-related meaning is more straightforward and still used in the trade.

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