Definition

A type of wax mixed with black pigment used for staining and polishing the edges of shoes or for making rubbings of inscriptions.

Example

The shoemaker applied heelball to give the shoes a polished finish.

Conversation

I found a really interesting tool for shoe repair called heelball.

Oh, what does it do?

It's used to polish the edges of shoe soles and heels.

That sounds useful! I might need to get one for my shoes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'heelball' is formed from 'heel' (from Old English 'hæle', meaning the back part of the foot) and 'ball' (from Old French 'balle', meaning a round object). The term 'heelball' refers to the rounded part of the heel of a shoe or foot.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'heel' as the back part of your foot and 'ball' as a round shape — together, they describe the rounded part of the heel.

Visually Confused Words