Phrase guide

top gear

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

The highest gear that is available in a motor vehicle or car.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: countable, uncountable

Examples

  • Near-synonyms: (often synonymous) fifth gear, overdrive
  • His Packard rarely saw top gear, because in the 1930s this county barely had any roads smooth and straight enough to use it on.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: fifth gear, overdrive

Antonyms: granny gear, low gear, first gear

2

noun

Meaning 2

The highest level of performance or activity.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: countable, figuratively, uncountable

Examples

  • Things really shifted into top gear once they found a new angel investor.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: overdrive, full throttle

Antonyms: low gear

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.