atop

1 of 2

adverb or adjective

ə-ˈtäp How to pronounce atop (audio)
Synonyms of atopnext
: on, to, or at the top

atop

2 of 2

preposition

: on top of

Examples of atop in a Sentence

Preposition The house sits atop a cliff overlooking the ocean.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adverb or adjective
Numerous people came out to park their cars to take pictures of the bunting being placed atop. — Darcel Rockett, Chicago Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026 This three layer dessert starts with a dark chocolate brownie on the bottom and layers of dark and white chocolate mousse atop. — Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 23 Apr. 2026
Preposition
The Chiefs have a world championship banner hanging atop the press box. — Sam McDowell July 3, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026 Once there, and after pre-flight testing, a payload fairing would be placed atop the vehicle ahead of launch. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for atop

Word History

First Known Use

Adverb Or Adjective

1638, in the meaning defined above

Preposition

1638, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of atop was in 1638

Rhymes for atop

See All Rhymes for atop

Browse Nearby Words

atony
atop
atopic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Atop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atop. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

atop

preposition
ə-ˈtäp
: on top of

More from Merriam-Webster on atop

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for atop

Nglish: Translation of atop for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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