Definition & Meaning of "make hay while the sun shine "

The idiom "make hay while the sun shines" has agricultural origins and is believed to have been in use since the 1500s. The idiom encourages people to take advantage of favorable conditions to accomplish tasks or goals while they can, as those conditions may not last indefinitely. The usage of the idiom has since expanded beyond agriculture and can now refer to any situation where someone should take advantage of a fleeting opportunity or favorable circumstances.