top dog

noun

: 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
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.
Defense has long been the anchor in Vegas, and that group will look very different without its top dog. The Athletic Nhl Staff, New York Times, 12 July 2025 Before the new cutest winner is crowned, meet the judges who will help decide 2025's top dog. Kelli Bender, People.com, 30 June 2025 Fans who missed seeing who became the top dog of both contests can check out replays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. PT on Friday. Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 4 July 2025 The event is a qualifier for the top dogs to earn a trip to the national finals in St. Louis, Missouri. Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 21 June 2025 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 21 Aug. 2025.

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