Tug (one's) forelock In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "tug (one's) forelock", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

author Jenne Phuong calendar 2021-08-24 01:08

Meaning of Tug (one's) forelock

Synonyms:

bow and scrape

Variants:

touch (one's) forelock

Tug (one's) forelock British disapproving old-fashioned

  

(Said by the third person) If a person tugs their forelock to another person, it means that they show too much respect to the second one; or they are too concerned about pleasing the second one who is in a superior position.

They are just fawning young men who always find an opportunity to tug their forelock to the boss.

I can't stand those who tug their forelock to rich but arrogant patrons.

Other phrases about:

cock a snook at somebody/something

 To say or do something intentionally to show that you have disrespect for someone or something

fall on (one's) knees

To go down on one or both of one's knees in order to express respect, awe, penitence, subjection or reverence

hold sb in high/low repute
To show a big/small respect for someone
pay tribute to (someone or something)

To praise, admire, or respect someone or something in a public way

hat in hand

In a humble manner, when taking off the hat and the hat in hand that shows a gesture of respect.

Grammar and Usage of Tug (one's) forelock

Verb Forms

  • tugged one's forelock
  • tugging one's forelock
  • tugs one's forelock
  • Possessive Adjectives

    • tug her forelock
    • tug his forelock
    • tug my forelock
    • tug our forelock
    • tug their forelock
    • tug your forelock

The verb “tug” should be conjugated according to its tense. 

Origin of Tug (one's) forelock

A "forelock" is used to refer to a lock of hair that falls over a person's forehead. Long ago it was usual for lower-class people to remove their hats in front of upper-class people. In case they were not wearing a cap, they touched their forelock instead. First recorded in writing by Harriet Martineau in 1832

The Origin Cited: owad.de .
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