1
general::
Present oneself, offer one's services, as in The boss asked for more help, but no one was inclined to come forward. [Early 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): come forward (with something)
to bring something, such as information, to someone’s attention. • Colleen came forward with a new idea. • I hope you each can come forward with something useful., Phrase(s): come forward
1. Lit. to move oneself forward. • Come forward and stand before the whole class. 2. Fig. to present oneself to offer evidence in court voluntarily. • Why did you not come forward earlier in the trial? • I was afraid to come forward during the trial.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs