Sekirov Dictionary

top and tail

verb 5
adverb 2
noun 1
forms 6

verb5

To remove the top and bottom of (an item), for example when preparing carrots for cooking.
•
To set the limits of (an audio tape recording, a digital video file, etc.) by adding physical markers or by trimming unwanted portions.
- They are retrieved when needed, topped and tailed ready for use, and stored on the newsroom system […] — 2002
To add to the beginning and end of (something), such as the salutation and valediction added to a letter.
•
(UK) To provide (a train) with a locomotive at each end, for ease of reversal.
- All services to Rhymney were top and tailed by locos that had been associated with the line over the years; namely, Classes 33, 37, 47 and 50. — 2018
(informal) To bathe (a small child) in a minimal way by wiping their face and bottom.

adverb2

•
Lined up in alternating directions; (of humans specifically) lying side-by-side with each person's head by their neighbours' feet.
- For this reason also we usually advise that the children are placed "top and tail" alternately so that each child's head is at least six feet from the next one. — 1948
•
(UK) With a locomotive at each end.
- The Class 50s headed the train from Bristol Temple Meads to Cornwall and back to Bristol, running top and tail on the Cornish branches. — 2022

noun1

The top and bottom of something.

forms

top and tailed · topped and tailed · top and tailing · topping and tailing · top and tails · tops and tails

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