top-down

adjective

ˈtäp-ˈdau̇n How to pronounce top-down (audio)
1
: controlled, directed, or instituted from the top level
a top-down corporate structure
2
: proceeding by breaking large general aspects (as of a problem) into smaller more detailed constituents : working from the general to the specific
top-down programming
top-down design

Examples of top-down in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
All that remains are multibillion-dollar deficits, looming compliance deadlines and a rigid, top-down funding apparatus that is pushing local governments and school systems over a fiscal cliff. — Chris Roemer, Baltimore Sun, 27 Aug. 2026 What’s less known is that AIPAC is not a top-down organization. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026 The top-down, bottom-up model of the RSEO is what ensures its authenticity as a corporate entity putting on a skate and punk festival—two subcultures that have always been proudly anti-establishment. — Michelle Bruton, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026 Sean will start off with our usual top-down look at the list itself. — Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for top-down

Word History

Etymology

from the phrase from the top down

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of top-down was in 1930

Rhymes for top-down

See All Rhymes for top-down

Browse Nearby Words

top dollar
top-down
top drawer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Top-down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/top-down. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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