doff

Etymology

From Middle English doffen (“take off”), contraction of Old English dōn of. Equivalent to a blend of do + off. Compare don, dup, dout, gauf.

verb

1. (clothing">clothing) To remove or take off (something such as clothing">clothing).
2. To remove or tip a hat, as in greeting, salutation or as a mark of respect.
   The rustics doffed their hats at the clergy.
   Were there really seventy-three ways to doff one's hat? There were! I'd rather suspected that 2010, Mr.B The Gentleman Rhymer (lyrics and music), “Hail the Chap”, in I Say!, performed by Mr.B The Gentleman Rhymer
3. To get rid of, to throw off.
   Doff that stupid idea: it would never work.
   Thus Death, who kings and tars despatches, / In vain Tom's life has doffed, / For, though his body's under hatches / His soul has gone aloft. 1778, Charles Dibdin, “The Perfect Sailor”, in (Please provide the book title or journal name)
4. (reflexive) To strip; to divest; to undress.
   Heaven's King, who doffs himself weak flesh to wear. 1646, Richard Crashaw, Steps to the Temple