over the top

1 of 2

phrase

: beyond the bounds of what is expected, usual, normal, or appropriate
: extremely or excessively flamboyant or outrageous
an over-the-top performance

Examples of over the top in a Sentence

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.
Adjective
Dan Aykroyd, Cheech Marin and Malcolm in the Middle's Erik Per Sullivan round out the cast, with performances that are equal parts cheesy, over-the-top and fun. Keith Langston, PEOPLE, 11 Dec. 2025 That was followed by New York City, which boasts an endless array of holiday cheer in the form of iconic ice skating rinks, festive holiday markets, renowned performances like the Radio City Rockettes, over-the-top department store window displays, and more. Kristine Hansen, Travel + Leisure, 9 Dec. 2025 The one not-to-miss dining experience, though, is the over-the-top indulgent brunch in the Grand Dining Room. Susan B. Barnes, Southern Living, 8 Dec. 2025 But Trump’s over-the-top comments are getting wilder and more provocative, and the question is, have Americans had enough? Joe Battenfeld, Boston Herald, 6 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for over the top

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1980, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of over the top was in 1980

Browse Nearby Words

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Over the top.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/over%20the%20top. Accessed 12 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!