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Region: General | Usage example: We passed the hat to cover the fundraiser costs.

Pass the hat

Meaning

Ask for money from a group.

Usage

Used for pooled contributions.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Street performances collecting coins by passing a hat.

Used since the early 20th century in community fundraising.

Related Idioms

Pass the buck

Shift responsibility to someone else.

Pass the baton

Transfer responsibility or leadership to someone else.

Bang for your buck

Good value for the money spent.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.