He went to his boss cap in hand to ask for a raise.
cap in hand
idiomIn a humble and respectful manner.
Origin
disputed originFrom the act of removing one's headwear as a sign of respect or submission. Attested from the 19th century.
After losing all his money, he had to go to his parents cap in hand to ask for help.
The disgraced politician returned to his constituents cap in hand, hoping they would forgive his past mistakes and grant him another chance.
- 01
back of one's hand
A display of disrespect or scorn.
- 02
bear a hand
To make haste; to help quickly.
- 03
big hand
Synonym of minute hand (on a clock face).
- 04
bite someone's hand off
To enthusiastically accept an offer.
- 05
bite the hand that feeds one
To cause harm to a benefactor (especially one that one is dependent on, thus with the idea that this behaviour is self-damaging).
- 06
bust a cap
To fire a weapon; to shoot with a gun.
- 07
cap it all off
To finish or complete something; to add a finishing touch.
- 08
cap over the windmill
In a bizarre or eccentric manner.