The first citation was in 1771 by Herbert Lawrence in a book that referred to someone getting a kick in the face and turning that person head over heels
The phrase emerged in the 14th century as "heels over head", which is more literally accurate, as "head over heels" is the more standard state of being. "Heels over head" evolved into "head over heels" in common use departing its literal meaning, probably for reasons of phrasal elegance.
Head over heels is an idiom because the meaning does not match what the words are saying.
It refers to people in love, not at work.. thus " Ann is head over heels in love with Peter". Ann is madly in love with Peter.. her head is spinning and she is somersaulting around. "Head over heels" means "not rational." It does not mean "overwhelmed." For that meaning, we might say someone is up to their neck in work, or over their head in it.
"Head over heels in love" would be one idiom.
The original idiom was HEELS OVER HEAD -- which should explain things to you! It means you're so happy you're turning cartwheels.
The phrase emerged in the 14th century as "heels over head", which is more literally accurate, as "head over heels" is the more standard state of being. "Heels over head" evolved into "head over heels" in common use departing its literal meaning, probably for reasons of phrasal elegance.
If you mean the brain teaser/riddle where the word head is above the word heels then the answer is head over heels.As in the phrase, "Head over heels in love".
head over heels
Head over Heels - In This Life - was created in 2007.
Head Over Heels was released on 02/02/2001.
The Production Budget for Head Over Heels was $14,000,000.
Head Over Heels grossed $10,397,365 worldwide.
Head over Heels - Cornerstone album - was created in 2008.
Head over Heels - video game - happened in 1987.
Head over Heels - video game - was created in 1987.
It was noted in the 14th Century as 'heels over head' and referred to someone doing a cartwheel or summersault. It appeared in a book from the 1770's by Herbert Lawrence describing an act of violence - a kick in the face which sent him head over heals. In the 1800'S it appeared in the USA referring to someone who has falled head over heels in love
Head Over Heels grossed $10,397,365 in the domestic market.