Tip one's hat to someone

Origin

The gesture of removing or tipping one's hat as a sign of respect is rooted in ancient European customs, particularly from medieval knights who would raise their visors to show their face and peaceful intentions. By the 17th and 18th centuries, as hats became standard attire for men, this military tradition morphed into an essential social courtesy. A full doffing of the hat was reserved for superiors, while a slight lift or touch of the brim—a "tip"—became a common way to acknowledge acquaintances or express a general deference. This tangible act of respect then readily found its way into language, transforming into a widely understood metaphor for expressing admiration or tribute to someone's achievements or skill.