How Do You Spell FORELOCK?

Pronunciation: [fˈɔːlɒk] (IPA)

The word "forelock" is spelled as /ˈfɔːrlɒk/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "fore" is pronounced with the long "o" sound, and the second syllable "lock" is pronounced with the short "o" sound. The word refers to a lock of hair hanging over the forehead, especially of a horse or other animal. The spelling of the word is consistent with English spelling rules, where the "e" at the end of the first syllable makes the preceding vowel long.

FORELOCK Meaning and Definition

1. Forelock noun:

   1. A lock of hair growing or hanging down over the forehead, typically longer than the rest of the hair. It often falls between the eyes and can be brushed or worn straight back. The forelock is considered a distinctive feature of some hairstyles and can be styled in various ways to express personal taste or cultural traditions.

   Example: "The little girl had a cute forelock that framed her face."

   2. In equestrian terms, forelock refers to the tuft of longer hair that grows between the ears of a horse, usually found in the center of its forehead. It is an essential part of the horse's mane and is often braided or embellished during horse shows or competitions.

   Example: "The rider gently patted her horse's forehead, making sure to keep the forelock tidy and well-groomed."

   The term "forelock" can also be used in a figurative sense to denote premonition or preventive action taken to avoid a future problem or difficulty. This usage originates from the custom of touching or tugging one's forelock in deference or submission to a superior, symbolizing a humble and obedient attitude.

   Example: "The wise decision to invest in security measures was a conscious effort to take the issue by the forelock and prevent any potential breaches."

   Overall, "forelock" refers to a lock of hair hanging over the forehead, the tuft of hair on a horse's forehead, or metaphorically, proactive action taken to address or prevent a future concern.

2. The hair that grows over the forepart of the head: to take time by the forelock, not to let slip an opportunity; to make the most of time.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FORELOCK

• forelorn
• forlock
• foresook
• forelob
• frolock
• doorelock
• firelok
• firelock
• fyrelock
• dorelock
• forelok
• forsalack
• Foreloke
• Forelol
• Farilock
• Firelocke
• Fireloack
• Fokerock
• Forbluck
• Govelock
• Fyreloch
• Lveelock

Etymology of FORELOCK

The word "forelock" originates from Old English "foreloc", where "fore" means "in front" and "loc" means "a lock of hair". In Old English, the term referred to the lock of hair that hung down over the forehead. "Forelock" eventually became the standard term used to describe the hair on the front part of the head. The word "forelock" likely stems from the Old English words "fore" and "loc" due to the prominent positioning of the hair on the front of the head.

Idioms with the word FORELOCK

• tug at/touch your forelock The idiom "tug at/touch your forelock" refers to the act of showing deference or subservience to someone who is of higher social status or authority. It originates from the practice of pulling or touching one's hat or forelock as a sign of respect or submission.
• take time by the forelock The idiom "take time by the forelock" means to seize or make the most of an opportunity promptly and decisively. It suggests taking control of time and acting proactively rather than being passive or allowing opportunities to pass by. The phrase alludes to grabbing a horse's forelock, which indicates taking control and direction.
• forelock-tugging The idiom "forelock-tugging" refers to a subservient or deferential behavior in which someone shows excessive respect or deference towards someone in a position of authority or importance. It often implies an exaggerated display of obedience or flattery towards someone higher in rank or social standing. The term originates from the act of pulling or tugging at one's forelock which was a traditional gesture of respect towards someone of higher status in medieval times.
• tug your forelock The idiom "tug your forelock" is an expression that refers to showing excessive respect or deference towards someone in authority or of higher social status. It typically denotes a submissive or servile demeanor, originating from the custom of pulling one's forelock as a gesture of respect in the past.
• touch (or tug) your forelock The idiom "touch (or tug) your forelock" refers to a gesture of respect or submission towards someone in a higher social rank or position. It originates from the tradition of taking off one's hat and touching or tugging the front part (forelock) of one's hair as a sign of deference or servitude. This gesture signifies acknowledging and showing deference to authority or superiority.

Similar spelling words for FORELOCK

• flock,
• frolic,
• foreleg,
• firelock.

Plural form of FORELOCK is FORELOCKS