I. ˈtäpiŋ, -pēŋ noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from gerund of toppen to top — more at top
1. : something that forms a top (as of a tuft of hair or feathers on the head or a forelock): as
a. : something (as a sauce, nuts, or whipped cream) used to garnish food and especially dessert
b. : a finishing layer of mortar about 1/2 to 1 inch in thickness placed on concrete (as on a floor or sidewalk)
2. : the action of one that tops: as
a. : the reduction of a tooth (as on a saw or gear) by filing
b. : the removal of volatile parts (as from crude oil)
3. : something removed by topping: as
a. : the cut tops of plants
b. : refuse separated from hemp in hackling
c. : the finest bran
4. : a feather from a golden pheasant's crest used in an artificial fly — see fly illustration
II. adjective
Etymology: from present participle of top (III)
1. : highest in rank, degree, or eminence
2. New England : proud , pretentious , arrogant
3. chiefly Britain : very fine : excellent