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, ∨ 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.
© Webster 1913.