Here's a breakdown:
* Bees are known for their efficient navigation: They fly directly to their destination, often returning to the hive in a straight line.
* The phrase emerged in the 1600s: It was first recorded in English literature in the 1650s.
* "Bee-line" became a metaphor: It began to be used figuratively to describe a straight, direct route or path.
So, the next time you see someone taking a "beeline" for something, remember that it's a nod to the remarkable navigational abilities of bees!