top-down
adjective
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
While top-down communication is vital, empowering the mighty middle fosters trust, smooths transitions and boosts morale.
—
Expert Panel®, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024
Research shows there are big benefits to companies from incorporating workers and their unique knowledge and insights into the design and rollout of new technologies, compared to top-down implementation.
—Molly Kinder, Mark Muro, & Xavier De Souza Briggs, TIME, 10 Oct. 2024
Their greatest impact lies not in heroic, top-down leadership, but in their ability to create positive environments where others can excel, and in promoting sound, basic management practices.
—Dave Winsborough, Forbes, 6 Oct. 2024
Providing more housing has a top-down effect on the quality of lives of residents.
—Jonathan Horwitz, Orange County Register, 4 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for top-down 
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
Expert Panel®, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024
Research shows there are big benefits to companies from incorporating workers and their unique knowledge and insights into the design and rollout of new technologies, compared to top-down implementation.
—Molly Kinder, Mark Muro, & Xavier De Souza Briggs, TIME, 10 Oct. 2024
Their greatest impact lies not in heroic, top-down leadership, but in their ability to create positive environments where others can excel, and in promoting sound, basic management practices.
—Dave Winsborough, Forbes, 6 Oct. 2024
Providing more housing has a top-down effect on the quality of lives of residents.
—Jonathan Horwitz, Orange County Register, 4 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for top-down
Dictionary Entries Near top-down
Cite this Entry
“Top-down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/top-down. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share