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.
With these top-down changes, some organizations are scrambling for ways to preserve the employee engagement and business advantages that diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs offered. Abakar Saidov, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025 The union alleged that Dorland has made top-down decisions — including changes to health care and school start times — without listening to students, families and educators. Jessica Seaman, Denver Post, 30 May 2025 Conservatives may see the ban as another example of top-down government overreach. Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 30 May 2025 The quick touch of a physical button on the central display tilts the screen upright for better visibility during top-down driving. Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Top-down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/top-down. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

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