Pronunciation: [wɒz lˈɒɡəhˌɛdz] (IPA) 
The phrase "was loggerheads" is spelled just as it sounds, with no silent letters or confusing spellings. The first word, "was," is spelled with a short vowel sound and the /w/ consonant sound. The second word, "loggerheads," is spelled phonetically with a long /o/ sound and the /dʒ/ consonant sound. The phrase "was loggerheads" means to be in disagreement or at odds with someone, indicating a heated argument or debate.
The phrase "was loggerheads" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a state of being in conflict or at odds with someone, typically involving a heated or argumentative disagreement. The term "loggerheads" itself originated from the noun "loggerhead," which originally referred to a large-headed turtle species found in the Mediterranean.
When two or more individuals "are loggerheads" with each other, it means that they are in a state of fierce disagreement or conflict, often characterized by strong arguments, verbal clashes, or even physical confrontations. This expression implies a sense of being in direct opposition or at an impasse, with both parties unwilling to compromise or find a resolution.
The origins of this phrase can be traced back to the loggerhead turtle's habit of fiercely defending itself by snapping its jaws at anything perceived as a threat. The image of two individuals "being loggerheads" thus conveys the idea of two people fiercely clashing or engaging in a battle of words.
The phrase "was loggerheads" is typically used to describe a temporary or ongoing situation, where individuals find themselves at odds with each other, lacking agreement, and unable to resolve their differences. It conveys a sense of intensity and hostility within a disagreement, suggesting that the parties involved are deeply entrenched in their positions, resulting in a heated and contentious situation.
The phrase "was at loggerheads" means to be in a state of disagreement or conflict with someone. The etymology of this phrase is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the late 16th century.
One possible explanation is that "loggerheads" refers to a type of iron tool used in iron forging. These loggerheads were large iron bars with a bulbous head that blacksmiths used to heat and shape metal. They were heavy and dangerous, making them a potential weapon. It is plausible that the phrase "at loggerheads" originated from the idea that being in a conflict or argument with someone was comparable to being struck by these heavy tools.
Another theory suggests that "loggerheads" derived from the term "hedge-battle", where two people would fight or argue at a hedge or boundary line.
