The Collaborative International Dictionary
Forelock \Fore"lock`\, n.
The lock of hair that grows from the forepart of the head.
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(Mech.) A cotter or split pin, as in a slot in a bolt, to prevent retraction; a linchpin; a pin fastening the cap-square of a gun.
Forelock bolt, a bolt retained by a key, gib, or cotter passing through a slot.
Forelock hook (Rope Making), a winch or whirl by which a bunch of three yarns is twisted into a standard.
--Knight.To take time by the forelock or To take occasion by the forelock, to make prompt use of anything; not to let slip an opportunity.
Time is painted with a lock before and bald behind, signifying thereby that we must take time by the forelock; for when it is once past, there is no recalling it.
--Swift.On occasion's forelock watchful wait.
--Milton.