in heart of hearts

in (one's) heart of hearts

In the deepest, most intimate part of oneself. In my heart of hearts, I knew that I didn't really love Bill—and yet, I married him anyway. A: "I'm so sorry that your daughter's modeling job didn't work out." B: "Oh, that's OK. In her heart of hearts, she knew it was a long shot."

See also: heart, of

in one's heart of hearts

According to one's truest, innermost feelings, especially when secret. For example, It's a wonderful job offer, but in my heart of hearts I don't want to leave this area. [Late 1500s]

See also: heart, of

in (one's) heart of hearts

In the seat of one's truest feelings.

See also: heart, of