Buckle down

Meaning

Focus and apply oneself seriously.

Usage

Instruction to stop procrastinating and start working.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Probably from buckling on armour or a harness before hard work; the exact origin is uncertain.

Recorded in American English from the 19th century.