top dog

noun

Synonyms of top dognext
: a person, group, or thing in a position of authority especially through victory in a hard-fought competition

Examples of top dog in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The most popular personalities on Fox News — still the top dog among conservatives — continue to be supportive. Ali Swenson, Chicago Tribune, 4 Mar. 2026 In addition, the two brands are the most popular companies in each of the more than 100 counties, but which one is top dog depends on the county. Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 1 Mar. 2026 Canada has always been hockey's top dog, and to watch both of these American teams come away with wins — both with a final score of 2-1 in overtime — was marvelous. Pien Huang, NPR, 23 Feb. 2026 There is a new top dog in Corporate America. Diane Brady, Fortune, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for top dog

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of top dog was in 1900

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Cite this Entry

“Top dog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/top%20dog. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

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