Hat In Hand Phrase Origin
The first known use of hat in hand was in 1821.
Hat in hand phrase origin. Whats the origin of the phrase Old hat. We had to go hat in hand to the committee to get a grant for our proposal. Hate on someone or something hate somebodys guts.
Of course this is just a saying and does not mean that the person actually has a hat its just the attitude that the person uses is one of great humility and almost fearful when approaching another person from whom they need a favor. Heart in hand etc but can you please tell me the meaningorigin of hat in hand. Or play some queer rogues trick to stop us.
I assume that the origins are from feudal times when serfs or any lower members of feudal society were required to take off their hats in the presence of the lord or monarch remember the Dr. From the Phrase-Finder Archives. For example this piece from the Cornish writer Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couchs novel Brother Copas 1911.
Seuss book The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins. If I knew as little of life as that Id eat my hat and swallow the buckle whole The OED also gives an earlier form - Ill eat Old Rowleys hat. Hat in hand adverb.
In a humble manner. To be shown the door to be sent packing. Ive seen the discussion re.
Go cap in ˈhand to somebody British English American English go hat in ˈhand beg for something very respectfully. Hatches matches and despatches. For example They went to her hat in hand asking for a change of assignment This expression alludes to removing ones headgear as a sign of respect and has survived the era of doffing ones hat.