top off
Definition
Verb (transitive) 1. To fill a container completely, especially to the very brim. * This meaning focuses on the action of adding the final amount to a container until it is as full as possible, often almost overflowing. 2. To finish or conclude something in a special or memorable way. * This meaning focuses on adding a final, often celebratory or satisfying, element to complete an event or experience.
Examples
- Meaning 1 (To fill completely):
- Could you top off my coffee, please?
- Before the long drive, he topped off the gas tank.
- Meaning 2 (To finish memorably):
- They topped off the perfect day with a walk on the beach.
- We topped off the meal with a delicious dessert.
Advanced Usage
- The action of "topping off" often implies adding a small, final amount to achieve completeness.
- In the context of finishing an event, the final element is typically seen as an enhancement or a fitting conclusion.
Variants and Related Words
- Top-up (noun/verb, chiefly British English): A very close synonym, especially for the first meaning of refilling a drink or a phone's credit.
- I need a top-up on my coffee.
- Cap off (verb, phrasal): A near-synonym for the second meaning (to finish memorably).
- She capped off her speech with a powerful quote.
Synonyms
- For Meaning 1: Fill up, refill, replenish.
- For Meaning 2: Crown, climax, complete, finish, conclude.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Top up: As noted above, this is a direct variant, especially in British English, with identical meanings.
Related Idioms
- To top it all off: Used to introduce the final and often most significant item in a list of events, usually negative but can be positive. It emphasizes that this item completes the situation.
- It was raining, I was late, and to top it all off, I forgot my keys.
- We had great food, wonderful company, and to top it all off, a beautiful sunset.
Verb
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fill to the point of almost overflowing
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She topped off the cup
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finish up or conclude
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They topped off their dinner with a cognac
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top the evening with champagne
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