Definitions

at the drop of a hat

ADVERB

readily

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cheerfully eagerly easily freely gladly immediately promptly willingly

WEAK

at once facilely hands down in a jiffy in no time lightly no sweat nothing to it piece of cake quick as a wink right away slick as whistle smoothly speedily straight away swimmingly unhesitatingly well without delay without demur without difficulty without hesitation

Antonyms

STRONGEST

difficultly grudgingly unwillingly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If you’re the type who likes to be ready at the drop of a hat, try any one of these all-inclusive picnic setups, which include plates, silverware, cups and even a wine opener.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 4, 2026

"He bought Twitter so that he had clout and would be able to - at the drop of a hat - reach hundreds of millions of people," Donovan said.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2025

For the women, it’s Lake, with her pixie cut, newscaster makeup, perfectly composed look, and tendency to start yelling in your face at the drop of a hat.

From Slate • Jan. 11, 2024

I have to rope my friends in, I have to rope other actors in knowing that I’m going to have to return the favor at the drop of a hat.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 10, 2023

Abbey can cry at the drop of a hat.

From "Flush" by Carl Hiaasen

at the drop of a hat

Example Sentences

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