top-down

adjective

ˈtäp-ˈdau̇n 

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

The danger of sticks One response to this anxiety has been to shift from an era of experimentation—in which employees are encouraged to try out AI—to one of top-down mandates and formal pilots, where employees are required to trial specific tools and demonstrate measurable results. —Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 25 Mar. 2026

And in some cases, CEOs have less authority, as flatter organizations emphasize collaboration over top-down decision-making. —Orlando Sentinel, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Mar. 2026

And in some cases, CEOs have less authority, as flatter organizations emphasize collaboration over top-down decision-making. —Editorial, Boston Herald, 16 Mar. 2026

And in some cases, CEOs have less authority, as flatter organizations emphasize collaboration over top-down decision-making. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from the phrase from the top down

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for top-down

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown