over the top

Idioms  

1. Surpassing a goal or quota, as in The new salesmen are excellent; they were over the top within the first six months . [Mid-1900s]

2. Over the parapet of a military trench, as in The lieutenant sent fresh troops over the top . This usage dates from World War I.

3. Extreme, outrageous, as in This comedian's style goes over the top . [ Slang ; late 1900s]

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Explanation

Use the adjective over-the-top to describe something that's excessive or exaggerated, like the over-the-top birthday party your uncle threw for his two year-old, complete with ponies, clowns, and a chocolate fountain. When something goes way beyond what's expected, it's over-the-top. Your sister's outfit can be described as over-the-top if she is wearing a sequinned dress, a feather boa, and a black silk top hat. The gift you give your fourth grade teacher is also over-the-top if it's two tickets to a Broadway play and a diamond ring. When something's over-the-top, it's a little outrageous.

Example Sentences

“That’s the sort of thing that I love to watch and . . . it sounds so over the top, but it kind of fills my heart.”

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

The humor was over the top; the impact wasn’t.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

It was so over the top, you don’t even need a name.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

Delcy Rodriguez, who took over the top job, is now working with the US administration.

From BBC • Mar. 6, 2026

Rosie fans her ears, opens her mouth, and steps sideways so she’s standing directly over the top of Marlena.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Related Words

• exaggerated
• outrageous