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What is "to take time by the forelock"

The Collaborative International Dictionary
To take time by the forelock

Forelock \Fore"lock`\, n.

  1. The lock of hair that grows from the forepart of the head.

  2. (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.

Usage examples of "to take time by the forelock".

Now, sir, it's got to come to blows sooner or later, and what I propose is to take time by the forelock, as the saying is, and come to blows some fine day when they least expect it.