top*/*/*/

[tɒp] noun I

1) [C] the highest place, point, part, or surface of something

We could see mountain tops in the distance.[/ex]

I left my purse at the top of the stairs.[/ex]

He sprinkled sugar on top of the cake.[/ex]

2) [C] a flat upper surface of something

a table top[/ex]

3) [C] a lid or cover for a container or pen

the top of the shampoo bottle[/ex]

4) [C] a piece of clothing that covers the upper part of your body

She was wearing a red skirt and a black top.[/ex]

5) the top

[singular] the highest status or most important position

Scott has reached the top of his profession.[/ex]

•

from top to bottom — completely and thoroughly[/ex]

We cleaned the house from top to bottom.[/ex]

sth gets on top of you — informal if something gets on top of you, it causes you a lot of work and worry[/ex]

Things are really getting on top of me at home.[/ex]

off the top of your head — immediately and without thinking very much[/ex]

Off the top of my head, I'd say we have about 200 members.[/ex]

on top — in a situation where you are in control or winning[/ex]

United stayed on top throughout most of the match.[/ex]

on top of — 1) in addition to something else[/ex]

On top of all his financial problems, his wife left him.[/ex]

— 2) in control of what is happening

I try to stay on top of things.[/ex]

— 3) very close to someone or something

The truck was almost on top of me.[/ex]

on top of the world — in a very good mood because things are going well for you[/ex]

over the top — more than what is considered normal or suitable[/ex]

II

adj

top */*/*/[tɒp]

1) at or on the highest part of something

Our room is on the top floor.[/ex]

2) highest in status, degree, or importance

He's one of the top players in the league.[/ex]

Our top priority now is finding shelter for the flood victims.[/ex]

III

verb [T]

top [tɒp]

1) to be larger than a particular amount

The costs for the project may top £50 million.[/ex]

2) to be in the most important or popular position in a list of things

3) to be better or more impressive than something else

I don't think I can top your fishing story.[/ex]

4) to cover something with a layer of something else

pizza topped with pepperoni[/ex]

•

- top sth off

- top sth up