Top

Definition

Top is a noun referring to the highest or uppermost part of something, an adjective meaning highest in rank or quality, a verb meaning to place or be at the highest position, and also a spinning toy.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tɑːp/
• Respelling: TOP

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tɒp/
• Respelling: TOP

Etymology

The word "top" originates from Old English "topp," meaning "summit, crest, tuft," derived from Proto-Germanic "*tuppaz." Related terms include Old Norse "toppr" and Dutch "top," all of which denote the highest point or peak.

Derivatives

• Topmost (adjective)
• Topper (noun)
• Topless (adjective)
• Overtop (verb)
• Top-notch (adjective)

Synonyms

• Peak
• Summit
• Apex

Antonyms

• Bottom
• Base
• Low

Usage

The word "top" is used in various contexts. As a noun: "She climbed to the top of the mountain." As an adjective: "He is the top student in his class." As a verb: "The cake was topped with cherries." As a toy: "The child spun the top on the table."

Related Terms

• Peak: The pointed summit of a mountain.
• Summit: The highest point of a hill or mountain.
• Apex: The top or highest part of something, especially one forming a point.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The highest or uppermost part of something: Refers to the physical peak or summit.
  • Example: "The tree has a bird’s nest at the top."
• A toy that spins on a point: Refers to a children's spinning toy.
  • Example: "He played with a wooden top."
• The best or most important position: Indicates rank or quality.
  • Example: "She reached the top of her career."

Adjective

• Highest in rank, quality, or importance: Describes superiority in a category.
  • Example: "He is a top performer."
• Located at the highest point: Refers to placement or position.
  • Example: "The top shelf holds the rarest books."

Verb

• To place something at the highest point: Refers to adding something as a covering or decoration.
  • Example: "She topped the cake with frosting."
• To surpass or exceed: Indicates achieving a higher level or rank.
  • Example: "The movie topped the box office charts."