Definition of the word top off

The expression "top off" first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century, specifically in the context of construction work. It refers to adding the finishing touch or completing a structure by adding a final layer, usually in the form of a roofing material, to the topmost point. The origin of the phrase "top off" can be traced back to the construction industry, where it was used as a command to workers to finish a building project by placing the highest point of the roof or skyscraper. This phrase became commonly used in construction as a clear and concise way for builders to signal the end of a stage of construction, as well as to emphasize the significance of adding the final touch to a project. The term "top off" is still widely used in the construction industry today, where it has become a part of industry jargon. In other contexts such as sports, "top off" is often used to describe scoring a final point, goal, or basket shortly before the end of the game, in effect, completing the victory. Overall, the origin of "top off" can be traced back to the construction industry, where it is now an established term in building terminology. Its use has since expanded to other areas, where it is used to describe finishing a project or activity by adding a final touch.