put the bottom rail on top
To reverse a hierarchy.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The new manager wants to put the bottom rail on top.”
“By giving the interns full control over the project, the CEO decided to put the bottom rail on top.”
“The revolutionary movement sought to put the bottom rail on top, dismantling the long-standing power structures that had marginalized the working class for generations.”
- 01
bet one's bottom dollar
To be absolutely sure of something; to be certain enough of something to wager everything.
- 02
bottom dollar
The last of one's money; all of one's money.
- 03
bottom fishing
Buying, or seeking opportunities to buy, investment securities or other valuable properties at a time when markets are depressed and prices are low.
- 04
bottom line
The summary or result; the most important information.
- 05
bottom of the line
The worst or lowest quality on the market, especially among a range of products.
- 06
bottom of the ninth
By extension, any last chance or final opportunity.
- 07
bottom out
Of a vehicle, to touch or drag along the ground or other surface.
- 08
bottom the house
To clean a house from top to bottom; to clean a house extremely thoroughly.
Last updated August 10, 2026