To take occasion by the forelock
(gcide) | Forelock \Fore"lock`\, n.
1. The lock of hair that grows from the forepart of the head.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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On occasion's forelock watchful wait. --Milton.
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