n. The lock of hair that grows from the forepart of the head.
- (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. - To take time, or occasion, by the forelock, to make prompt use of anything; not to let slip an opportunity.