TOP DRAWER Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "top drawer" is an idiomatic expression that refers to something or someone of exceptional quality, excellence, or prominence. Derived from the literal sense of a drawer at the top of a chest of drawers which is often used to store valuable or carefully chosen items, the term has come to signify the highest level or superior position.
When used to describe a person, "top drawer" indicates someone who is considered the best in their field, possessing exceptional talent, expertise, or skill. It suggests a level of proficiency or accomplishment that sets them apart from others and places them at the pinnacle or peak of their profession or area of expertise.
In terms of objects, particularly belongings or possessions, "top drawer" denotes items that are of superior quality or value, often associated with luxury or opulence. It typically suggests items that are carefully selected, precious, or highly prized. For example, a top drawer watch or jewelry would denote an exquisite, prestigious, and valuable piece.
Furthermore, the phrase can also be used to describe something that is excellent or exceptional in a general sense, beyond its usual connotations. For instance, if something is described as a top drawer performance or an event celebrated as being top drawer, it signifies the utmost or highest level of quality, surpassing expectations, and deserving recognition and admiration.
Common Misspellings for TOP DRAWER
- topp-drawer
- top-draer
- top-drawe
- ttop-drawer
- twopdrawer
- toopdrawer
- topdraweer
- top drawers
- top draw
- tope drawer
Etymology of TOP DRAWER
The phrase "top drawer" is commonly used to describe something of excellent quality or high social standing.
The etymology of "top drawer" can be traced back to the furniture of the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, chests of drawers or dressers were commonly designed with multiple drawers. The uppermost drawer, often located at eye level, was considered the most convenient and easily accessible one.
In the late 19th century, the term "top drawer" began to be used metaphorically to represent things that were considered superior, high-ranking, or of superior quality, drawing from the notion of the most convenient drawer being associated with the most valuable items.
Over time, the phrase "top drawer" has become a fixed expression in the English language, consistently used to convey the sense of something being of the highest quality or socially elite.
Idioms with the word TOP DRAWER
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from/out of the top drawer
The idiom "from/out of the top drawer" typically means of the highest quality, excellent, or exceptional. It is often used to describe someone or something that is considered elite or top-notch.
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from of the top drawer
The idiom "from of the top drawer" is used to describe something or someone of the highest quality or excellence. It refers to something or someone who is at the highest level, comparable to the most valuable or desirable items stored in the top drawer of a cabinet or chest.
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out of the top drawer
The idiom "out of the top drawer" means something or someone of exceptional quality, class, or excellence. It refers to something that is top-notch or superior in terms of its status, caliber, or performance. The phrase originates from the practice of keeping highly prized or valuable possessions in the top drawer of a dresser or cabinet, symbolizing their importance and exceptional value. Therefore, when referring to something as "out of the top drawer," it signifies its exceptional nature or outstanding quality.
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from the top drawer
The idiom "from the top drawer" means of the highest quality or the very best. It refers to something or someone that is seen as of exceptional standard or excellence.
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top drawer
The idiom "top drawer" means of the highest quality or excellence; superior or outstanding. It can also refer to something or someone considered to be of the best or utmost status or rank.
