LOCK HORNS Meaning and
Definition
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To "lock horns" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation where two or more individuals or groups engage in a strong and often heated argument or disagreement. The phrase is derived from the head-on physical confrontation between two rival male animals, like deer or bulls, which lock their curved horns together during a territorial dispute or battle for dominance.
In a figurative sense, when individuals or groups "lock horns," they engage in a fierce, combative, or contentious struggle to defend their viewpoints, interests, or positions. This confrontation often involves a clash of ideas, differing opinions, or conflicting goals, resulting in a confrontational and intense debate.
The phrase can also connote individuals becoming entangled in a dispute where neither party is willing to back down or compromise, intensifying the conflict. "Locking horns" implies a relentless and persistent struggle, highlighting the determination of those involved to assert their beliefs, maintain control, or prove their superiority.
Throughout history, the phrase "lock horns" has been widely employed in various contexts, such as politics, business, sports, and personal relationships. It suggests that the parties involved are determined to resist yielding, fighting tooth and nail until a resolution is reached or one side emerges victorious. Thus, to "lock horns" encapsulates the spirit of a passionate and fierce confrontation, where opponents fiercely challenge each other with unwavering determination.
Common Misspellings for LOCK HORNS
- kock horns
- pock horns
- oock horns
- lick horns
- lkck horns
- llck horns
- lpck horns
- l0ck horns
- l9ck horns
- loxk horns
- lovk horns
- lofk horns
- lodk horns
- locj horns
- locm horns
- locl horns
- loco horns
- loci horns
- lock gorns
- lock borns
Etymology of LOCK HORNS
The phrase "lock horns" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a confrontation or conflict between two people or parties. It originated from observing two male animals, such as deer, rams, or bulls, engaging in combat by literally locking their horns together.
The term "lock" comes from the action of interlocking or entwining, while "horns" represent the actual bony appendages on the head of certain animals. This combination of words vividly describes the process of two creatures engaging in a physical struggle, during which their horns become entangled.
Over time, the phrase "lock horns" has been adopted metaphorically to describe any intense or confrontational situation where two individuals or groups clash, much like the animals locking horns in combat.
Idioms with the word LOCK HORNS
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lock horns (with sb)
The idiom "lock horns (with someone)" means to engage in a conflict or argument with someone, usually while both parties hold strong opposing views or opinions on a particular matter. It often implies a heated or intense disagreement.
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lock horns (with sm)
The idiom "lock horns (with someone)" means to engage in a conflict or argument with someone, often involving a stubborn or confrontational attitude. It refers to the way two animals, such as deer or rams, interlock their horns during a physical confrontation. In a figurative sense, it indicates a clash of opinions, personalities, or perspectives.
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lock horns (with somebody) (over something)
The idiom "lock horns (with somebody) (over something)" means to engage in a heated argument or confrontation with someone, typically over a disagreement or conflicting opinions about a particular matter. It implies a clash of ideas or a struggle for dominance, much like how two animals with interlocking horns would fight.
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lock horns
To engage in a heated argument or dispute.
