over the top

1 of 2

phrase

: beyond the bounds of what is expected, usual, normal, or appropriate

over-the-top

2 of 2

adjective

ˌō-vər-ṯẖə-ˈtäp 

: extremely or excessively flamboyant or outrageous

an over-the-top performance

Examples of over the top in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Phrase

Before the series of South Africa-New Zealand meetings in recent weeks, Erasmus pleaded for home supporters not to sing over the top of it — perhaps wary of the All Blacks’ response. — Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

Levees can be breached when water flows over the top during flooding. — Kaleigh Yost, The Conversation, 10 Sep. 2026

Adjective

Everything that makes Las Vegas fabulous — bright lights, over-the-top design, opulent food and drinks, and eccentric characters — can be found in spades at Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge. — Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 10 Sep. 2026

Each show has a different theme that will transport you to an over-the-top setting, from a masquerade ball to old Hollywood. — Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1980, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for over the top

• atop
• backdrop
• backstop
• bebop
• blacktop
• bookshop
• clatsop
• desktop
• eavesdrop
• estop
• hardtop
• hilltop