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

The 16th-century cottage sleeps four across two bedrooms, with mind-your-head height ceilings and a fresh, detailed decorating hand that keeps the old bones from feeling too over the top. — Katharine Sohn, Architectural Digest, 6 Aug. 2026

Hoyer added Cabrera and third baseman Alex Bregman in the offseason in hopes of putting the Cubs over the top in the division. — Jon Greenberg, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026

Adjective

On an episode of Today with Jenna and Sheinelle, the broadcaster admitted that her over-the-top cheering got her into trouble. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 31 July 2026

Everything over-the-top, trendy, and colorful seems to be available. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 30 July 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