pass the hat . pass the hat {v. phr.} To solicit money; take up collections for a cause. The businessmen's club frequently passes the hat for contributions toward scholarships. Categories: add yours money {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: P Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Leave my opinion