top of the hour
The time at (or very close to) the start of the next hour of time.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The news report starts at the top of the hour.”
“Please meet me in the lobby at the top of the hour for our scheduled tour.”
“The radio host reminded listeners that the final election results would be announced precisely at the top of the hour.”
- 01
amateur hour
A situation or activity in which the participants show a lack of skill, sound judgment, or professionalism.
- 02
cherry on top
Synonym of icing on the cake (“a thing which intensifies the appreciation of something already good, or (ironic) the regretting of something already bad”).
- 03
finest hour
A point in time or a relatively brief period of time when an especially distinguished, admirable, or effective set of actions is performed.
- 04
grass tops
Of, related to, or involving local influential figures.
- 05
long hour
Any of the late hours of the day, especially those nearing midnight, or the hours after sunset.
- 06
on top
In a dominant position.
- 07
over the top
Beyond normal, expected, or reasonable limits; outrageous.
- 08
put the bottom rail on top
To reverse a hierarchy.
Last updated August 10, 2026