make hay while the sun shines
/meɪk heɪ waɪl ðə sʌn ʃaɪnz/
idiom
Origin
English
Agricultural practice — Utilizing optimal weather for harvest
Overview
Meaning Now
- To take advantage of a favorable opportunity while it lasts.
Literal older meaning
In agriculture, hay must be dried in the sun; if it rains, the grass will rot, so farmers must harvest quickly during sunny weather.
Language path
English
Earliest form
Make hay while the sun shines
Earliest period
16th century
Journey
The proverb originated in rural England, reflecting the urgency of haymaking. Before mechanical drying, grass had to be turned and dried by the sun in a very short window of time; missing this window meant the loss of essential winter fodder for livestock.
Evolution
- 16th century
Make hay while the sun shines
“Utilize time effectively for harvest.”
First recorded in Heywood's collection.
- Modern English
Make hay while the sun shines
“Seize the day/opportunity.”
Used widely in general speech.
Connections
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External references use DefinedTerm semantics.