crest
n. countablen. the highest part of something, like the top of a hill or the white part of a wave. It can also be a special symbol used by a family or group.
n. the peak or highest point of a wave, hill, or ridge; also refers to a heraldic device or emblem displayed above a shield or on a uniform. Often used to describe the tuft of feathers or skin on the head of a bird or animal.
The surfers waited for the crest of the wave.
We finally reached the crest of the hill and looked down at the valley below.
The family crest was engraved on the silver signet ring, representing a lineage that stretched back several centuries.
From Middle English creste, from Old French creste (modern French crête) and perhaps continuing Old English cræsta (“crest, tuft, plume”); both ultimately from Vulgar Latin *cresta, from Latin crista. Doublet of crista. The informal meaning “design, logo” (noun sense 11) stems from a misinterpretation of the heraldic noun sense 4, which specifically refers to the object placed on top of the helm.
Often used with 'of' to indicate the top of a physical structure or natural formation.