change of heart

American  

noun

1. a reversal of one's feelings, intentions, opinions, etc..

   At first Mother said we couldn't go, but she had a change of heart and let us.

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change of heart Idioms  

1. Altered feelings or attitude, as in Paul didn't like his new job, but a raise prompted a change of heart and he became quite enthusiastic. [Early 1800s]

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Etymology

Origin of change of heart

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

change of heart

Situational discussed selling $3.5 billion worth of its Anthropic stake to Sequoia and Greenoaks to cover margin calls from its lenders, but it had a change of heart and backed out of the deal.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 7, 2026

In the end, he had a change of heart and went to Greek side Olympiakos instead, where he stayed for three seasons.

From BBC ● Aug. 2, 2026

That evolving attitude is reflected in his decision to spare Kanbei’s life, although the change of heart worries his troops, who believe he will be perceived as weak in Oda’s eyes.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026

Besides, some Platner voters may have had a change of heart since the primary and would like their sudden prioritization of boringness to be reflected in their next candidate.

From Slate ● Jul. 7, 2026

Thomas was surprised at the sudden change of heart.

From "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner