# pass the hat

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/pass-the-hat
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To ask for money, especially from a group of people; to solicit donations or contributions.

## Examples

- We will pass the hat to buy a gift for our teacher.
- They pass the hat at the end of every street performance.
- We pass the hat to help a friend who lost his job.
- The team decided to pass the hat around the office to help their colleague pay for his unexpected medical bills.
- When the local park was damaged by the storm, the neighbors decided to pass the hat to pay for new trees.
- The club members pass the hat during the monthly meeting to cover the cost of snacks and drinks.
- Instead of charging a fixed ticket price, the band prefers to pass the hat after they finish playing their set.
- After the sudden tragedy, the community members began to pass the hat among themselves to ensure the family had enough money for the funeral expenses.

## Origin

Derived from the literal practice of circulating a hat among a gathered group to collect monetary contributions. The figurative application, denoting a request for funds, is an extension of this physical gesture.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.