hat (hăt)
n.

1. A covering for the head, especially one with a shaped crown and brim.
2. 1. A head covering of distinctive color and shape worn as a symbol of office.
   2. The office symbolized by the wearing of such a head covering.
3. A role or office symbolized by or as if by the wearing of different hats: wears two hats-one as parent and one as corporate executive.

tr.v., hat·ted, hat·ting, hats.
To supply or cover with a hat.

idioms:

at the drop of a hat

1. At the slightest pretext or provocation.

hat in hand

1. In a humble manner; humbly.

take (one's) hat off to

1. To respect, admire, or congratulate.

talk through (one's) hat

1. To talk nonsense.
2. To bluff.

throw (or toss) (one's) hat into the ring

1. To enter a political race as a candidate for office.

under (one's) hat

1. As a secret or in confidence: Keep this information under your hat.

[Middle English, from Old English hæt, hætt.]

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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