The phrase "top drawer" refers to something of the highest quality or importance. The spelling of this phrase uses the phonetic transcription [tɒp drɔː]. The "t" in "top" is pronounced with a voiceless alveolar stop, while the "o" is pronounced with an open-mid back rounded vowel. The "d" in "drawer" is pronounced with a voiced alveolar stop, and the "r" is pronounced with a voiced alveolar trill. Together, these sounds create a distinctive and memorable phrase that connotes excellence and superiority.
The phrase "top drawer" is an idiomatic expression that refers to something or someone of exceptional quality, excellence, or prominence. Derived from the literal sense of a drawer at the top of a chest of drawers which is often used to store valuable or carefully chosen items, the term has come to signify the highest level or superior position.
When used to describe a person, "top drawer" indicates someone who is considered the best in their field, possessing exceptional talent, expertise, or skill. It suggests a level of proficiency or accomplishment that sets them apart from others and places them at the pinnacle or peak of their profession or area of expertise.
In terms of objects, particularly belongings or possessions, "top drawer" denotes items that are of superior quality or value, often associated with luxury or opulence. It typically suggests items that are carefully selected, precious, or highly prized. For example, a top drawer watch or jewelry would denote an exquisite, prestigious, and valuable piece.
Furthermore, the phrase can also be used to describe something that is excellent or exceptional in a general sense, beyond its usual connotations. For instance, if something is described as a top drawer performance or an event celebrated as being top drawer, it signifies the utmost or highest level of quality, surpassing expectations, and deserving recognition and admiration.
The phrase "top drawer" is commonly used to describe something of excellent quality or high social standing.
The etymology of "top drawer" can be traced back to the furniture of the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, chests of drawers or dressers were commonly designed with multiple drawers. The uppermost drawer, often located at eye level, was considered the most convenient and easily accessible one.
In the late 19th century, the term "top drawer" began to be used metaphorically to represent things that were considered superior, high-ranking, or of superior quality, drawing from the notion of the most convenient drawer being associated with the most valuable items.
Over time, the phrase "top drawer" has become a fixed expression in the English language, consistently used to convey the sense of something being of the highest quality or socially elite.