brought to heel
Forced into submission
Brought to heel means forced into obedience or submission, like a trained dog made to walk closely behind its master.
The phrase implies someone previously defiant or independent has been compelled to comply: The rebel faction was finally brought to heel after months of pressure.
It often carries connotations of humiliation or loss of autonomy.
- obeyFollow commands given
- fall in lineComply with expectations
- toe the lineAdhere to standards
- dominateControl through superior strength
- subjugateBring under dominion
iron fist · crack the whip · quell · pacify · whip into shape · yield · bend the knee · acquiesce · knuckle under · train · govern · overpower · capitulate · suppress · conform · cowed · discipline · under control
brought to heelunbroken
Not damaged or interrupted
unbowed · defiant · insubordinate · rebellious · mutinous
brought to heelset free
Release from confinement
liberated · unleashed · emancipated · unshackled · unchained
brought to heelup in arms
Angrily protesting something
risen up · mutinous · insurgent · fighting back · overthrowing
brought, brings, bringer, heel, heels, heeled, heeling, well-heeled