topper

Topper is a term with multiple meanings across different contexts. In general, it refers to something that sits on top of another object, or to a person who achieves the highest ranking in a competition, class, or list. The precise meaning depends on the context, including fashion, food, vehicles, or everyday language.

In fashion, a topper commonly refers to a top hat, a tall, formal hat traditionally made of felt or silk. It was a staple of formal attire for men in the 19th and early 20th centuries and remains a recognized, if less common, symbol of classic dress in some regions. The word “topper” in this sense is chiefly British and other Commonwealth usage.

In food and decoration, a cake topper is a decorative element placed on the surface of a cake, often representing figures, initials, or motifs. It can be made of plastic or edible materials such as fondant, sugar paste, or icing. The term can also be used more generally for edible decorations that sit atop a dish, though “topping” is the broader, separate category.

In the context of vehicles and structures, a topper may describe a truck topper or camper shell—a rigid cover that fits over the bed of a pickup to create enclosed space. Roof toppers can also refer to modular additions placed on existing structures or vehicles to extend function or space.

Other uses include informal speech for a person who tops a group or list, and occasional appearances in film or literature. The 1937 film Topper and its sequels are among the notable references bearing the name. The word also appears as a surname or given name in some cases.