Taking Hay

The phrase "making hay" comes from the longer expression "making hay while the sun shines." This saying originates from the agricultural practice of haymaking, which involves cutting grass and then drying it to create hay, primarily used as animal feed. Since this process is heavily dependent on sunny weather to dry the grass effectively, farmers must take advantage of the sunny days to make their hay. Thus, the phrase metaphorically means to take advantage of favorable conditions or opportunities while they last.

This expression has been in use since at least the 16th century. One of the earliest recorded uses is in John Heywood's collection of proverbs in 1546, indicating its long-standing usage in the English language. Over time, "making hay" has come to be commonly understood as seizing the moment or not wasting a good opportunity.