Definitions
from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.
- phrase idiomatic without any
hesitation ;instantly
Etymologies
from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License
From the customary starting of competitions by making a sweeping downward motion with a cap.
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Examples
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mialuthien commented on the word at the drop of a hat
= without much of a reason at all
July 25, 2008
sionnach commented on the word at the drop of a hat
I think this refers more to time, than motivation. It means "in an instant", or "in a heartbeat".
July 25, 2008
chained_bear commented on the word at the drop of a hat
I was thinking about that too. Hmm. But you know, it could mean motivation in the sense that someone's always ready. "He could throw a fit at the drop of a hat," could mean "very quickly," or "unexpectedly, at any given moment." Or "She will take out Play-Doh and snort it at the drop of a hat," could mean, "for any excuse at all."
Not that I do that. Especially not at work.
July 25, 2008
bilby commented on the word at the drop of a hat
... your head gets sunburn?
April 26, 2009