Bat, Bat, Come Under My Hat
Bat, bat,
Come under my hat,
And I'll give you a slice of bacon;
And when I bake
I'll give you a cake,
If I am not mistaken.
Origin
“Bat, Bat, Come Under My Hat” is an English nursery rhyme most likely originating from the 19th century. The exact origin of the rhyme and its creators remain unclear, however, some believe it was first mentioned by 19th-century Irish poet William Allingham.
Meaning
The literal meaning of the line “Bat, Bat, Come Under My Hat” is unclear. Since bats generally evoke a sense of fear, some researchers believe this line may be referring to the idea of hiding or being protected from something. Others argue the meaning of the line is more innocent with the “hat” perhaps being a symbol of security or safety. Additionally, some believe “Bat, Bat, Come Under My Hat” is linked to a secret or hidden meaning found in certain circles.
Though the line “Bat, Bat, Come Under My Hat” has been used in many different countries throughout the centuries, it first debuted in the United States in the book “Mother Goose: or, the Old Nursery Rhymes,” which was published in 1881.
