in harness
1
used when one is back to doing one's job and normal activities at work, particularly after a leave or vacation
The idiom "in harness" originated in the world of horse-drawn transportation and refers to a situation where a horse is harnessed to a carriage or other vehicle. It can be used to describe a range of scenarios, such as when a team is working together on a project, when a worker is performing a task with dedication and focus, or when a group is working towards a common goal.
- By the time the new CEO arrived, the employees had already been in harness and had improved the company's performance.
- The team is in harness and working together to complete the project by the deadline.
- They were in harness and successfully closed the biggest deal of the year.
2
with one another to achieve an aim
The origin of the idiom "in harness" is believed to come from the literal meaning of the word "harness," which refers to the gear or equipment used to control or guide a horse or other draft animal. The expression "in harness" originally referred to being harnessed to a plow or other farm tool, and later came to refer more generally to being actively engaged in work. It is used to describe a situation where someone is actively working or engaged in a task or duty, often in collaboration with others.
- The firefighters moved in harness to rescue the people trapped in the burning building.
- The team is working in harness to complete the project on time.