forelock
UK[ˈfɔːlɒk]US[ˈfɔːrlɑːk]
n
A lock of hair growing just above the forehead.
n
A piece of a horse's harness consisting of a strap fastened to the top of the headpiece and passing between the ears and over the forehead.
Morpheme Breakdown
fore
lock
fore
front
lock
strand of hair
Etymology
The word 'forelock' is a straightforward compound from Old English elements, literally meaning a 'front lock' of hair. The first element, 'fore', is a common Germanic prefix denoting position, derived from the Proto-Indo-European root per- (forward, through). The second element, 'lock', originates from the Proto-Germanic lukkaz, likely related to the verb meaning 'to bend' or 'to close', reflecting the curled or intertwined nature of hair. Its primary meaning has remained remarkably consistent, referring specifically to the hair falling over the human forehead or the analogous part of a horse's mane, later extended to the harness strap securing that area.
Analysis
Structure: fore (front) + lock (strand of hair)
- fore: From Old English fore- (in front, before). A Germanic prefix indicating position at the front.
- lock: From Old English loc (a lock of hair, a tress). A Germanic noun for a strand or curl of hair.
Examples
He nervously tugged at his forelock when speaking to the landlord.
The old tradition of touching one's forelock was a sign of respect.
She gently brushed the horse's forelock before putting on the bridle.