Explore the meaning, history, and cultural significance of the phrase 'top drawer,' denoting the highest quality or social standing.
The phrase “top drawer” denotes something of the highest quality or rank. It often implies superior social standing or excellence in a particular domain.
The term “top drawer” originates from the literal top drawer of a bureau or dresser, traditionally reserved for jewelry and other valuables. This association with valuables led to the metaphorical use of the phrase to signify high quality or social status. The phrase began to be used in this figurative sense around 1900. An early literary reference can be found in Ngaio Marsh’s Colour Scheme (1943): “He’s not out of the top drawer, of course.”
The semantic essence of “top drawer” lies in its connotation of superiority and prestige. It suggests an echelon of excellence, whether in terms of social class, product quality, or personal attributes. The phrase may also carry an elitist undertone, as it implies a stratification where only the best is deemed worthy of the “top drawer.”
In contemporary culture, “top drawer” is often used to describe luxury goods, prestigious events, or individuals of high social standing. While its usage has declined, it remains a recognizable idiom in literature and historical contexts. For instance, the phrase might appear in period dramas or works exploring themes of social hierarchy.
In professional settings, “top drawer” might describe leading companies or executives. Socially, it could refer to individuals or families with significant influence or wealth. In literature, it often appears in discussions of class or prestige.
The phrase “top drawer” has become somewhat obsolescent in modern vernacular, as newer expressions have emerged. However, it retains a certain charm and specificity in historical or literary contexts. Its durability is rated at ★★☆☆☆.
“He’s not out of the top drawer, of course.” - Ngaio Marsh, Colour Scheme (1943)