To have a rabbit out of the hat
Meaning
To produce an unexpected and often ingenious solution or result in a surprising or seemingly effortless manner.
Origin
The image of a magician plucking a live rabbit from an empty top hat is one of the most enduring symbols of illusion and surprise. While ancient sorcerers and street performers have long conjured objects seemingly from thin air, the specific "rabbit from a hat" trick rose to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a staple of vaudeville and stage magic. The trick relies on sleight of hand, misdirection, and clever compartments, creating the illusion of something appearing from nothing. This theatrical marvel quickly entered the vernacular, transforming into a metaphor for any unexpected, often brilliant, solution or sudden, surprising revelation that appears as if by magic.
Examples
- The project was failing, but our lead engineer managed to have a rabbit out of the hat with a last-minute software patch that fixed everything.
- Just when everyone thought the company would go bankrupt, the CEO had a rabbit out of the hat, announcing a major new investment.