Atop: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in more poetic or formal contexts, often to describe something placed on the highest point of something else.

• The castle stood proudly atop the hill.
• The bird perched atop the tree.

More casual and commonly used to describe something physically located on the highest part of another object.

• They placed the icing on top of the cake.
• She stacked the books on top of each other.

Great for most general contexts to indicate something higher in position. It can also imply superiority or a higher ranking.

• The moon hung above the mountains.
• Her office is located just above ours.

Frequently used to express something directly covering or being high above something else. It can also imply dominance or control.

• She held an umbrella over her head.
• The plane flew over the city.