have a head for (something)

have a head for (something)

1. To have the mental ability to do something well. I've always been good at math—I guess I just have a head for numbers.2. To have the ability to withstand or endure something. I never had a head for flying before, but I'm getting used to it now that I have to travel so much for work.See also: have, head

have a head for figures

To have an exceptional mental ability to calculate numbers; to be good with numbers. I've always been good at math—I guess I just have a head for figures.See also: figure, have, head

have a head for heights

To be comfortable in very high places; to not be afraid of heights. Jed likes to climb rock walls without a rope, so you can definitely say he has a head for heights.See also: have, head, height

have a head for something

Fig. have the mental capacity for something. Jane has a good head for directions and never gets lost. Bill doesn't have a head for figures and should never become an accountant.See also: have, head

have a head for

Also, have a good or strong head for . 1. Be able to tolerate, as in Nell has no head for liquor, or Luckily I have a good head for heights. [Early 1800s] 2. Have a mental aptitude for, as in She has a good head for figures and straightened out the statistics in no time. [Early 1900s] See also: have, head

have a (good) head for ˈfigures

be good at doing sums, etc: If you want to be successful in business, you must have a good head for figures.See also: figure, have, head

have a (good) head for ˈheights

be able to stand on a high place without feeling ill or afraid: I won’t go up the church tower with you. I’ve no head for heights.See also: have, head, height