ENGLISH
REFERENCE

capped

v. · adj.
US //ˈkæpt// UK //kˈæpt// capped
  1. 1 to limit an amount (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to set a maximum limit on an amount of money or a number.

    to place an upper limit on a price, rate, or quantity. Often used in passive constructions regarding finance or policy.

    Example

    The government capped energy prices to help families with their monthly bills.

    Example

    The regulatory body capped the interest rates that lenders could charge, aiming to protect vulnerable consumers from predatory debt cycles.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice: 'The budget was capped at five million dollars.'
  2. 2 to cover the top (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to put a lid or a cover on the top of something.

    to provide a fitting or protective covering for the top or end of an object.

    Example

    She capped the bottle tightly so the juice wouldn't spill in her bag.

    Example

    The engineers capped the abandoned oil well with a heavy steel plate to prevent any further environmental leakage into the surrounding soil.
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  1. 3 having a top or limit (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having a cover on top, or having a fixed limit that cannot be passed.

    characterised by a physical cap or a predetermined maximum threshold.

    Example

    The snow-capped mountains looked beautiful in the early morning sun.

    Example

    The investment offers a capped return, meaning you cannot earn more than a specific percentage regardless of market performance.
  2. 4 to finish or follow (v.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    to finish an event with something even better or more impressive.

    to follow or conclude an event with a final, often superior, action or achievement.

    Example

    He capped his amazing performance by winning the gold medal.

    Example

    The team capped a remarkable season by securing the championship title in a dramatic final match that went into overtime.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is often used to describe a 'crowning achievement' or a final positive touch to a series of events.

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