Throw your hat in the ring

Meaning

Declare your intention to compete.

Usage

Used when announcing candidacy.

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.

Boxing arenas where gentlemen tossed hats to challenge a fighter.

Sportswriting from the 1800s popularized the phrase.