hat in hand

Idioms

Also, cap in hand. In a humble manner. For example, They went to her, hat in hand, asking for a change of assignment. This expression alludes to removing one's headgear as a sign of respect and has survived the era of doffing one's hat. [c. 1700]

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.

Unlike federal agencies, the Fed doesn’t have to go to Congress hat in hand to cover operating losses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

But what caused Milei to go hat in hand to the U.S. in the first place?

From Salon • Sep. 26, 2025

“It wasn’t easy to kind of come hat in hand, so to speak, and say ‘This is something I need help with.’

From Seattle Times • Jan. 25, 2024

And while little is known of George Leslie’s early life, it’s safe to say that he grew up wanting little, ready to marry well and live out his days with a top hat in hand.

From Slate • Dec. 28, 2023

The preacher came forward slowly, hat in hand, and stood in front of Mr. Dalton.

From "Native Son" by Richard Wright

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023