tails

[teylz]

adjective

1. (of a coin) with the reverse facing up.

   On the next toss, the coin came up tails.

noun

1. tailcoat.

tails

/ teɪlz /

plural noun

1. an informal name for tail coat

interjection

1. with the reverse side of a coin uppermost: used as a call before tossing a coin Compare heads

Word History and Origins

Origin of tails¹

First recorded in 1675–85; tail ¹ + -s ¹

Example Sentences

Aside from the timing, this is a 'heads it's awkward, tails it's awkward' situation for the prime minister.

From BBC

Fijian tails were up until Orr pounced on a loose ball to turn defence into attack.

From BBC

But for many Labour strategists, whichever way the ruling had gone, today was a case of "heads they win, tails we lose".

From BBC

They feature an intricate bee design on the tails side, representing his love of nature.

From BBC

The cats had extensive bruising, multiple broken legs, all four canine teeth broken, dislocated spines and tails.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cloak 
• frock 
• jacket 
• overcoat 
• raincoat 
• suit 
• tuxedo 
• windbreaker 
• wrap