| Idiom | Pass the Hat |
|---|---|
| Example | I need money for the amusement park. I may just have to pass the hat. |
| Meaning | to ask for contributions; to beg |
| Origin | At one time, hats were passed around at entertainment events by people asking for money. The custom might have originated with street minstrels who entertained people and then requested payment. And a hat is an excellent container in which to collect money. A related expression is "hat in hand" (see page 87). |
Learn with these flashcards. Click next, previous, or up to navigate to more flashcards for this subject.
Next card: Pay nose word restaurant meal idiom 1600s rhino
Previous card: Pass buck responsibility make accept meant needed decision
Up to card list: Scholastic Dictionary of Idioms