opera hat

noun

1. a man's tall, collapsible top hat, held open or in shape by springs and usually covered with a black, silky fabric.

opera hat

noun

1. a collapsible top hat operated by a spring Also calledgibus

Word History and Origins

Origin of opera hat¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

Then they would go in, opera hat under arm, with that conquering air of married men when they are unaccompanied by their wives.

From Project Gutenberg

Lot 176—Frock coat and vest, dress coat and vest, ditto, pair of trousers and opera hat.

From Project Gutenberg

Instead, Gortchky wore an opera hat, with evening dress of the most fashionable description.

From Project Gutenberg

A black overcoat of some stylish cut and a silk hat or crush or opera hat is also worn.

From Project Gutenberg

We are like what a music-hall Lion Comique would be without his opera-hat, if such a thing can be imagined.

From Project Gutenberg