top-heavy
top-heavy
Definition
top·-heavy (täp′hev′ē)
adjective
too heavy at the top for the base below, so as to be likely to fall over or collapse: also used figuratively, as of an organization with too many executives
top-heavy
Synonyms
top-heavy
modif.
Antonyms
top-heavy
Usage Examples
Adjective complement with noun phrase
- make: Even without the metal knob, this extreme taper makes the stick decidedly top-heavy.
Modifies a noun
- structure: A creaking, top-heavy management structure was created - with our chairman seemingly at the center of every web.
- furniture: Many find it difficult to stand especially on the upper floors Furniture is shifted and top-heavy furniture may be overturned.
- and/or: Small, top-heavy and/or precariously supported objects may be shifted or fall down.
- bureaucracy: Might it not simply add a further layer to an already top-heavy aid bureaucracy?
- appearance: As it is, the device gives this slight tower a top-heavy appearance, almost looking like it is standing on legs!
Modifying Another Word
- little: I had to walk beside him to keep him steady, for he was still a little top-heavy.
- very: However, the IFA is a very top-heavy organization.
- too: It was quite hollow and far too top-heavy and has been replaced with a Tulip Tree which will be magnificent in its turn.
- so: Being so top-heavy, the IFA is perceived as representing the interests of members who are in senior posts within archeology.
Used with adjective complement
- get: Traditional grains, presented with that much food, get top-heavy, fall over and die.
Browse dictionary entries near top-heavy
- top-heaviness
- top-heavily
- top hat
- top-hamper
- Top-Forty
- top-flight
- top-dressing
- top-dress
- top-drawer
- top-down investment approach
- top-hole
- top kick
- top-level
- Top Level Domain
- top-line
- top-line growth
- top-notch
- top off
- top quark
- top-secret
