Emily Dickinson Lexicon

hat (-s), n. [OE haet < Germanic, hood, head covering.] (webplay: cover, crown, dignity).

1. Covering for the head.
2. Symbol of status; head-dress showing the dignity of the wearer.
3. Phrase. "To lift one's hat": remove hat in respect; raise hat as sign of salutation.
4. Phrase. "To throw away one's hat": toss hat as sign of joy; [fig.] celebrate.
5. Phrase. "To hang one's hat": take up one's quarters; establish residence.