Robert Schumann

Mendelssohn I consider the first musician of the day; I doff my hat to him as my superior. He plays with everything, especially with the grouping of the instruments in the orchestra, but with such ease, delicacy and art, with such mastery throughout.

German Composer

Doffing involves a physical action of removing attire; use when the action is deliberate and noticeable.

Physical Action

Removing clothing, especially hats, as a polite gesture signals respect or formality in certain situations.

Polite Gesture

Doffing one's hat as a greeting can express humility or deference, often in formal or historical contexts.

Respectful Greeting

In some cultures, doffing headwear is a customary way to show honor or mourning; sensitivity is key.

Cultural Tradition

In a non-literal sense, doff suggests casting aside intangible things, like thoughts or attitudes.

Figurative Use

Use 'doff' to describe the act of willingly rejecting outdated practices or ideas.

Embrace Change

Doffing unwanted aspects can carry a positive connotation of growth or liberation.

Positive Connotation

 for refusing to doff and don their hats or their "uncouth" practice of shaking hands. But those accusations of incivility pretty soon became pretexts for persecution. So far, so familiar, right? We see that strategy again and again.