<P> "Toe the line" is an idiomatic expression meaning either to conform to a rule or standard, or to stand poised at the starting line in a footrace . Other phrases which were once used in the early 1800s and have the same meaning were toe the mark and toe the plank . </P> <P> The expression has disputed origins . Those suggested are from public school, the armed services, or possibly the British House of Commons . </P>

Where does the expression toe the line come from