Pronunciation: [tˈɒpt] (IPA) 
The word "topped" is spelled with a double "p" to signify the pronunciation of the /p/ sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for "topped" is /tɒpt/, where the first symbol, the voiceless alveolar plosive /t/, is followed by the low back rounded vowel /ɒ/ and the voiceless bilabial plosive /p/. The doubled "p" represents the need to emphasize the release of air from the lips for the second /p/ sound, making the word distinct from "topt".
The verb "topped" has several distinct meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. At its most general level, "topped" refers to the action of reaching or attaining the highest point or position in a certain domain. This can be applied to various situations, such as being the best or leading performer in a competition or achieving the highest grade in an academic assessment. In these cases, "topped" implies surpassing others or excelling in a specific field.
Additionally, "topped" can also describe the physical act of placing something on the uppermost part of an object or surface. This could involve positioning an item at the apex of a pile or heap, exemplified by topping a tower of building blocks with a single capstone piece. In a similar vein, "topped" can depict covering or garnishing food or beverages with an extra layer or element, imparting flavor or visual appeal.
Furthermore, "topped" can encompass the act of cutting, pruning, or removing the uppermost part of a plant, tree, or shrub. This process is often done to encourage growth, shape the plant, or maintain its size. By eliminating the upper portion, the plant’s growth may be redirected to lateral stems or branches, eventually fostering a more compact or bushy appearance.
In summary, "topped" can pertain to excelling or surpassing others, placing something at the highest point or adding a layer or element to it, or cutting or pruning the uppermost part of a plant or tree.
Surpassed; having the top cut off.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "topped" comes from the Old English word "toppian", which means "to provide with a top" or "to put a covering or cap on something". It is derived from the Old Norse word "topp", meaning "a tuft or tufted hair". The word eventually evolved to refer to various actions involving putting a top or cover on something, such as adding a crown or summit to a mountain or tree. Over time, "topped" also came to be used metaphorically to indicate being in a superior or highest position, such as being the best or achieving the highest score.
