topsy-turvy

adjective

Synonyms of topsy-turvynext
: turned topsy-turvy : totally disordered
topsy-turvily adverb
topsy-turvydom noun

Examples of topsy-turvy in a Sentence

the office is still topsy-turvy even though we moved in months ago
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.
Given the topsy-turvy nature of the NHL standings this year outside of the top three teams in the Central Division, this might not matter a week or two from now, but there were seven other teams in the league with 52-plus points Wednesday morning. Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 7 Jan. 2026 But then came a critical turning point in a topsy-turvy game. Chris Waugh, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026 In a world where things can feel topsy-turvy, the best source for inspiration is often found through self-discovery—and that can start with a coat of nail polish. Jesa Marie Calaor, Allure, 22 Dec. 2025 Davis, Ingram, and Scottie Barnes could create a dangerous enough frontcourt to take over the East in a year where everything is topsy-turvy in the conference. Tyler Erzberger, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for topsy-turvy

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of topsy-turvy was in 1612

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Topsy-turvy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topsy-turvy. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

topsy-turvy

adverb
top·​sy-tur·​vy
ˌtäp-sē-ˈtər-vē
topsy-turvy adjective

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