Chapter: 💎 Top-Drawer: Unpacking High-Quality Clichés 📦
Definition: “Of the highest quality or rank.” The expression alludes to the uppermost drawer of a bureau or dresser, where jewelry and other valuables are kept. It transitioned to denote high social standing or first quality around 1900.
Synonyms
- First-class
- Premium
- Top-notch
- Elite
- Superior
Antonyms
- Mediocre
- Second-rate
- Inferior
- Bottom-tier
- Subpar
Humor-filled Quote
“Finally threw out my top drawer, it got too full of bottom-drawer jokes. Now my humor is 100% high-quality!” — The Unfunny Comedian
Proverbs
- “The cream always rises to the top.”
- “Fine feathers make fine birds.”
- “Quality is better than quantity.”
Related Expressions
- Upper crust: Refers to the upper layers (the wealthy or elite) of society.
- Creme de la creme: French origin, meaning ’the best of the best.'
- A cut above the rest: Signifying something better than other similar options.
Literature Reference
In Ngaio Marsh’s “Colour Scheme” (1943), she remarks, “He’s not out of the top drawer, of course,” showcasing the term’s use to describe social standing.
Suggested Readings and Media
Books:
- “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: A vivid portrayal of the upper echelons of society.
- “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: Class, reputation, and social standing abound.
Movies:
- “The Devil Wears Prada”: Delve into the elite world of fashion.
- “Downton Abbey”: A television series exploring the lives of the British aristocracy.
Songs:
- “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits: A satirical take on wealth and the upper class.
- “Rich Girl” by Hall & Oates: Discusses the privileges and problems of high social rank.
Poetry:
- “Ulysses” by Alfred, Lord Tennyson: A poetic exploration of high-minded ambitions and exceptionalism.
### Which term is a synonym for 'top-drawer'?
- [x] First-class
- [ ] Second-hand
- [ ] Bottom-shelf
- [ ] Middle-grade
> **Explanation:** "First-class" indicates something of the highest rank or quality, making it a perfect synonym for "top-drawer."
### What does 'upper crust' refer to?
- [ ] A type of pastry
- [x] The elite or wealthy in society
- [ ] A geological formation
- [ ] A fancy hat
> **Explanation:** 'Upper crust' is often used to refer to the wealthy or elite segments of society.
### True or False: 'Top-drawer' implies mediocrity.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** Incorrect! 'Top-drawer' unequivocally means something is of the highest quality.
Farewell: “Strive to be top-drawer in a bottom-shelf world. Keep your aspirations high, your humor fresh, and your clichés both rare and well-dusted.” — W. T. Wittywords
