unhat
Definition
Verb (transitive):
- To remove a hat from: "unhat" means to take off a hat from someone or something, often as a gesture of respect or formality.
Verb (intransitive):
- To remove one's own hat: "unhat" can also mean to take off one's own hat, typically in a courteous manner.
Usage Examples
Transitive:
- The gentleman unhatted his guest as a sign of welcome. (He removed the hat from his guest's head.)
- The valet unhatted the master before the ceremony. (The servant took off the master's hat.)
Intransitive:
- He unhatted as he entered the church. (He took off his own hat upon entering.)
- The crowd unhatted in unison to honour the fallen soldier. (Everyone removed their hats together.)
Advanced Usage
"to unhat to someone": to remove one's hat as a respectful greeting.
- She unhatted to the elderly woman. (She took off her hat to show respect.)
"unhatting" as a formal gesture: In historical or ceremonial contexts, unhatting is a deliberate act of courtesy.
- The ambassador unhatted before the king. (He removed his hat as a formal greeting.)
Variants and Related Words
Unhatted (adj): having removed one's hat; bare-headed.
- The unhatted men stood in the rain. (They were without hats.)
Unhatting (n): the act of removing a hat.
- The unhatting of the audience was a sign of respect. (The act of taking off hats.)
Synonyms
Doff: to remove an item of clothing, especially a hat, as a gesture.
- He doffed his cap to the lady. (He removed his cap politely.)
Remove: to take off something worn.
- Please remove your hat indoors. (Take it off.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Unhat before: to remove one's hat in the presence of someone.
- He unhatted before the judge. (He took off his hat when entering the courtroom.)
Related Idioms
- Hat in hand: acting in a humble or apologetic manner (derived from the gesture of unhatting).
- He approached the boss hat in hand. (He was humble and respectful.)