thinking cap
- a state of mind marked by reflection or concentration: If we put on our thinking caps, we may come up with the answer.
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Origin of thinking cap
First recorded in 1870–75
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for thinking cap
Historical Examples
Now here's my idea that I evolved with my thinking-cap—I mean night-cap—on!
Glory and the Other GirlAnnie Hamilton Donnell
"And this head of mine would have to put on its thinking-cap," he pursued jovially.
The Leavenworth CaseAnna Katherine Green
We are a little too inclined to doff the thinking-cap at the first opportunity.
The Secrets of a SavoyardHenry A. Lytton
But I had my New England "thinking-cap" firmly set on my shoulders.
Geraldine FarrarGeraldine Farrar
Tell me what you know and then my 'thinking-cap' may be put on to some advantage.
Kitty's ConquestCharles King
Idioms and Phrases with thinking cap
thinking cap
see put on one's thinking cap.
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The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.