ENGLISH
REFERENCE

do something at the drop of a hat

idiom
Meaning

Do something without having planned beforehand


Origin

disputed origin

19th-century America, where dropping a hat was a signal to start a fight or a race.

Examples
SIMPLE

She is always ready to travel at the drop of a hat.

CONTEXTUAL

My neighbor is so helpful that he will come over to fix your sink at the drop of a hat.

COMPLEX

In such a fast-paced industry, successful managers must be prepared to change their entire strategy at the drop of a hat to stay ahead of the competition.

Last updated June 7, 2026