top-down

adjective

ˈtäp-ˈdau̇n 

1

: controlled, directed, or instituted from the top level

a top-down corporate structure

2

: proceeding by breaking large general aspects (as of a problem) into smaller more detailed constituents : working from the general to the specific

top-down programming

top-down design

Examples of top-down in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

What’s less known is that AIPAC is not a top-down organization. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026

The top-down, bottom-up model of the RSEO is what ensures its authenticity as a corporate entity putting on a skate and punk festival—two subcultures that have always been proudly anti-establishment. — Michelle Bruton, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026

Sean will start off with our usual top-down look at the list itself. — Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 10 Aug. 2026

China’s simplicity China, meanwhile, has been laser focused on its lunar exploration program since 2004, using its top-down, central planning system to keep resources flowing toward specific goals. — Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from the phrase from the top down

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for top-down

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown