Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for at the drop of a hat. Search instead for do it at the drop of a hat.
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.

See Examples For:

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

You can't find me a boxer from middleweight to heavyweight who wouldn't fight Paul at the drop of a hat for the type of money on display.

From BBC Jun. 27, 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 failed to coordinate search and rescue within their own state organizations and with foreign rescue teams that were flying in at the drop of a hat.

From Slate May 16, 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

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training