# hats off

> English word · Interjection · IPA /hæts‿ˈɒf/

## Definitions
1. Used as an instruction for people to remove their hats out of respect, generally towards someone of importance.
2. Used to express approval or praise: congratulations, kudos, well done!

## Etymology
Ellipsis of take one’s hat off to.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-09-03.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/hats-off