what does dig in your heels mean

“Dig in your heels” means to refuse to change your mind or to stay firm in your position, especially when other people are trying to persuade you otherwise.

Simple meaning

It usually suggests stubbornness or strong resistance to compromise.

Example

• “Even after everyone explained the plan, she dug in her heels and refused to agree.”

Origin

The image comes from someone or an animal pressing their heels into the ground to resist being moved forward, which is why the phrase means standing firm or refusing to budge.

Quick translation

In everyday English, it can mean:

• refuse to budge.
• stand your ground.
• be stubborn.