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Synonyms

at the drop of a hat

Idioms  
  1. Immediately, without delay, as in We were ready to pack our bags and go on vacation at the drop of a hat. This phrase probably alludes to signaling the start of a race or other contest by dropping a hat. [Late 1800s]


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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If you’re the type who likes to be ready at the drop of a hat, try any one of these all-inclusive picnic setups, which include plates, silverware, cups and even a wine opener.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 4, 2026

"He bought Twitter so that he had clout and would be able to - at the drop of a hat - reach hundreds of millions of people," Donovan said.

From BBC Jun. 6, 2025

To summon such challenging and intricate music at the drop of a hat is another of the band’s magic tricks.

From Los Angeles Times Oct. 4, 2024

“They are using it at the drop of a hat because it makes day to day operations easier,” said Tammie Gregg, deputy director for the A.C.L.U.’s National Prison Project.

From New York Times Aug. 19, 2023

You aren’t the only one who can concoct lies at the drop of a hat.

From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd

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