Topping

/ˈtɒpɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A layer of food placed on top of a dish, such as a pizza or dessert.
She added a generous topping of cheese to the pizza.
A decorative or finishing layer or coating.
The cake was adorned with a chocolate topping.
An ingredient that enhances the dish or adds flavor.
The sundae was served with a strawberry topping.
verb
To put a topping on a dish.
He spent the afternoon topping the cupcakes with frosting.
To surpass or exceed something.
This year’s sales have topped last year’s by a significant margin.

Etymology

Middle English 'toppynge', meaning a covering or layer placed on top.

Common Phrases and Expressions

the cherry on top
An additional element that enhances something already good.
pie topping
A sweet or savory layer added to a pie.
pizza topping
Ingredients added on top of a pizza base.

Related Words

frosting
A sweet spread used on cakes and pastries.
garnish
An item used mainly for decoration of food.
layer
A single thickness or coating in a dish.

Slang Meanings

Something or someone that adds excitement.
That new car is the topping of his life.
An attractive person or object.
She's a real topping in that dress!