topping

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Technical

n. the act of removing the top part of a plant or object.

n. the process or act of removing the upper portion of something, particularly in agriculture or forestry.

“Topping the trees every few years helps keep them at a safe height.”

“The agricultural manual explains that the topping of tobacco plants is essential for redirecting energy to the leaves.”

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Science Technical

n. special ropes or cables used on a boat to support a wooden pole called a boom.

n. cables or lifts used to support the ends of a spar or boom on a sailing vessel.

“The crew checked the topping lift to ensure the boom was secure.”

“Adjusting the topping lift allowed the sailors to raise the boom and clear the deck for the incoming cargo.”

C2 · Proficiency British English · Informal · Archaic

adj. an old-fashioned way to say something is excellent or very good.

adj. an informal, dated British term expressing high approval or excellence.

“We had a topping time at the garden party last weekend.”

“In the vintage novel, the protagonist describes his weekend in the country as a topping adventure.”