opera hat

noun

1. a man's tall, collapsible top hat, held open or in shape by springs and usually covered with a black, silky fabric.

opera hat

noun

1. a collapsible top hat operated by a spring Also calledgibus

Word History and Origins

Origin of opera hat¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

"I know some members may feel that they look particularly fetching in the opera hat, but it really does make the House of Commons look ridiculous," she told MPs.

From BBC

GIBUS: A man’s collapsible top hat, also called an opera hat.

From Washington Times

GIBUS: A man's collapsible top hat, also called an opera hat.

From US News

Until 1998, MPs were able to wear an "opera hat" to draw attention to themselves to raise a point of order.

From BBC

Shirt, collar, trousers, waistcoat, swallowtail, opera hat, tie, gloves, studs, buttons—everything just his size.

From Project Gutenberg