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Meaning of 'Heap coals on someone's head'

What does the saying 'Heap coals on someone's head' mean?

Idiom: Heap coals on someone's head

Meaning:

To do something nice or kind to someone who has been nasty to you. If someone felt bad because they forgot to get you a Christmas gift, for you to buy them a specially nice gift is heaping coals on their head. ('Heap coals of fire' is also used.)

Country: International English | Subject Area: General | Usage Type: Both or All Words Used
All idioms have been editorially reviewed. Submitted idioms may have been edited for correctness and completeness.
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