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Region: General | Usage example: The two agencies locked horns over funding.

Lock horns

Meaning

Enter into conflict.

Usage

Used in disputes.

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.

Animals clashing horns in combat.

Used since the 1800s in political journalism.

Related Idioms

Take the bull by the horns

Confront a problem directly.

Lock the door

Ensure finality and security.

Lock the barn door

Take action after the damage has already been done.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.