ENGLISH
REFERENCE

top to bottom

idiom
Meaning

Completely; entirely.


Examples
SIMPLE

We cleaned the house from top to bottom.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager inspected the new office from top to bottom before the staff moved in.

COMPLEX

The investigators searched the entire building from top to bottom, hoping to find evidence hidden by the suspects.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bet one's bottom dollar

    To be absolutely sure of something; to be certain enough of something to wager everything.

  2. 02

    bottom dollar

    The last of one's money; all of one's money.

  3. 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.

  4. 04

    bottom line

    The summary or result; the most important information.

  5. 05

    bottom of the line

    The worst or lowest quality on the market, especially among a range of products.

  6. 06

    bottom of the ninth

    By extension, any last chance or final opportunity.

  7. 07

    bottom out

    Of a vehicle, to touch or drag along the ground or other surface.

  8. 08

    bottom the house

    To clean a house from top to bottom; to clean a house extremely thoroughly.

Last updated April 17, 2026