Emily Dickinson Lexicon

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

1. Cap; turban; toque; covering for the head; [fig.] crest; tuft; tussock.
2. Symbol of status; head-dress showing the dignity of the wearer.
3. Phrase. “To lift one's hat”: show respect; give a salute; raise up the hat as sign of recognition.
4. Phrase. “throw one's hat away”: toss hat as sign of joy; [fig.] celebrate.
5. Phrase. “hung his … hat”: establish residence; take up one's quarters; [fig.] begin the winter season.