topping

American  

[top-ing] / ˈtɒp ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that tops.

2. a distinct part forming a top to something.

3. something put on a thing at the top to complete it, as a sauce or garnish placed on food.

4. toppings, the parts removed in topping or cropping plants, as branches.

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adjective

1. rising above something else; overtopping.

2. very high in rank, degree, etc.

3. Chiefly British Informal. excellent; wonderful.

topping British  

/ ˈtɒpɪŋ /

noun

1. something that tops something else, esp a sauce or garnish for food

2. angling part of a brightly-coloured feather, usually from a golden pheasant crest, used to top some artificial flies

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adjective

1. high or superior in rank, degree, etc

2. slang excellent; splendid

Other Word Forms

• untopping adjective

Etymology

Origin of topping

1300–50; Middle English: top part; top ¹, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

Sticker prices at elite universities nationwide are approaching $100,000 in total costs a year, topping the average U.S. household income.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Even before the new deal, the average teacher pay was over $100,000 and topping out at $130,000.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

Oil prices -- which tumbled last week after the United States and Iran agreed to a ceasefire -- jumped around eight percent Monday, with both contracts topping $100 a barrel.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

Total revenue rose 10% to $156 million, topping forecasts of $141.9 million.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

And when you’re just topping three feet in height yourself, a good-sized rat can be a real threat, especially since rats are one of the few breeds that can see straight through a fairy shield.

From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer